Hanaro Markt — Attraction in Dusseldorf

My very first visit to Hanaro Markt. Read all the nice reviews and seen the picture so I want to go see myself and buy some things.

Pro: the store has lots of Korean stuffs unique, interesting and hard to get in Germany or other countries in Europe. Huge variety of Korean groceries and fresh stuffs.

Con: The variety of Korean ramen was quite disappointing. Mostly Samyang ramen (the 'hip' Buldak ramen). I'd rather see Nongshim Shin black ramen. But could find it. The store was packed. When I entered it I was in a shock they would allow so many people in. Even in 'post-covid' time it was so packed that people could barely move in the store. There were over 200 people! At least limit the amount of people who can enter. If there was to be an accident paramedics would never get in. If there would be a fire no one would get out in time.

Conclusion: big store with interesting big variety of Korean groceries including a section of fresh vegetables, meat and seafood. But the ramen noodles selection was disappointing. And don't go there on Saturdays (or any busy day) apparently to avoid...

I paid a scouting visit to this supermarket that I’ve long heard rave reviews of. I instantly regretted ordering my rice cooker from Amazon, seeing that Hanaro carries a few solid models at reasonable price points.

The place was joyously crowded and I refrained from taking photos, which would clog up shelf access even more.

Mountains of rice sacks, condiments and fresh produces, box lunches and dishes, frozen goodies, Korean barbecue kits and Japanese table ware, this place has a super high joy-of-discovery per square meter ratio.

I noted with particular pleasure how many non-Asian faces are among the crowd, studying the labels and asking around for help and happily exploring. Love the vibe.

Jan 27, 2024 update: Wed 11 am is a delightful time slot for exploring the store. Much less crowded. Collected photoes. See details...

They sell instant noodles which were expired five months ago with a 50% discount. The noodle is not fried and dried so generally suggested to have it in 6 months after production by the maker. There is no notification about the expiration date anywhere but only on the bill. That means they know it is expired but do not want to involve in legal problems. Even other products with a regular price are already or almost expired. Only numbers or Korean letters are printed on the products, so it is quite tricky to check it out. When you buy Korean products, you had better ask someone who can read Korean, but of course not staffs. Otherwise please check the bill in front...