The Refreshing World of Naengmyeon: Cold Noodles

When the humidity of a Korean summer peaks, the streets of Seoul often become a quiet battlefield for the soul—or at least for the appetite. As the temperature climbs, local restaurants begin to draw long queues that stretch out the door. The destination for these patient crowds is rarely a heavy barbecue or a steaming stew. Instead, everyone is waiting for a simple metal bowl filled with ice-cold broth, long chewy noodles, and a few slices of chilled vegetables. This is Naengmyeon (cold noodles), the undisputed champion of the Korean summer diet.