Korean food includes many noodle dishes, and one of the most popular is naengmyeon. In this dish, long, thin, chewy buckwheat noodles swim in a savory broth. It’s traditionally served with ice, making it a popular treat during the summer. Learn more about this tasty dish’s origins and versions in the following guide.

The History of Naengmyeon

Naengmyeon is known to have existed since the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392) when it was once only enjoyed in the winter when ice formed. It’s typically seen as a North Korean dish, as it was especially popular in the cities of Pyongyang and Hamhung.

It spread throughout the country after the Korean War. It became so popular that in 1911, the Pyeonyang Joseon People Noodle Association was established, and the entire province was known as the “Naengmyeon Nation.”

It experienced a resurgence in popularity in 2018. At the first summit between North and South Korea, Kim Jong-un presented Moon Jae-in with the Pyongyang-style of naengmyeon as a gift. People across Korea and the world dined on naengmyeon to commemorate the occasion.

The Many Versions

There are many versions of naengmyeon, but the two main varieties are mul naengmyeon, originating from Pyongyang, and bibim naengmyeon, which was cooked up in Hamhung.

North Korean bibim naengmyeon is called hwe naengmyeon because it includes marinated raw fish (hwe), usually skate. It’s also eaten with gochujang, a spicy dressing. 

Mul naengmyeon is mainly made with buckwheat noodles and beef or pheasant broth. Popular toppings include thinly sliced pear, cucumber, and beef as well as hard-boiled eggs, carrot, radish, burdock, and kimchi. It’s common to add condiments like rice vinegar and agave nectar as well.

If you want to try naengmyeon, head to New Shilawon Korean Restaurant in Honolulu, HI. Family-owned since 1994, the restaurant makes all dishes fresh every day in small batches without MSG. In addition to noodles, they’re known for hot pot and all-you-can-eat yakiniku. Take a look at their menu on their website, and check out photos of their dishes on Facebook and Instagram. Call (808) 944-8700 to order takeout, or email them at Reservations@NewShilawonHonolulu.com for a reservation.