Noodles warning triggers heated reaction

Kim Min-koo has an easy reply to new research in the United States that hits South Korea where it hurts - in the noodles.

Drunk and hungry just after dawn, he rips the lid off a bowl of his beloved fast food, wobbling on his feet but still defiant over a report that links instant noodles to health hazards.

"There's no way any study is going to stop me from eating this," said Kim, his face beaded with sweat as he adds hot water to his noodles in a Seoul convenience store.