Seoul: South Korean food company Samyang Foods Inc. announced that it has achieved a remarkable milestone of US$700 million in exports over the course of one year, ending in June, driven by the strong global demand for its popular 'Buldak' spicy ramen. According to Yonhap News Agency, Samyang's exports have shown a significant upward trend over recent years, increasing from $100 million in 2017 to $200 million in 2018, $300 million in 2021, and reaching $400 million in 2022. The company was honored with the $700 million Export Tower award at the 61st Trade Day ceremony held in Seoul on Thursday, marking the first time a local food company has been bestowed with this award for achieving $700 million in shipments. A company spokesperson revealed that "Buldak ramen products accounted for more than 90 percent of our exports between July 1, 2023, and June 30 this year." Samyang's Buldak Bokkeummyeon, also known as "fire ramen," is sold in approximately 100 countries, with around 1 billion units being sold annual ly. Since its introduction in 2012, the hot chicken-flavored instant noodle product has amassed sales of 7 billion units, equivalent to 4 trillion won ($2.83 billion). The Buldak ramen gained popularity following a viral food-eating challenge in 2014, sparked by its intense spiciness.