Novelty ready meals such as protein-enhanced gimbap and milk-based ramen are popular in the convenience-store sector, the Kyunghyang Shinmun reported, as products increasingly target both health and fun.

With more single-person households and price pressures, demand for a 'value-for-money meal' has grown, and convenience stores have become spaces to test consumption trends with fast product turnover.

Health leanings such as high-protein and low-sugar, plus eye-catching combinations that trend on social media, drive sales, alongside active collaboration and limited-edition strategies.

Nutritional balance and sodium and sugar content are points for consumers to check; the industry signaled stronger labeling and expanded health lines.

We report everyday-consumption information without exaggeration, leaving food choices to readers.