Kimchi Mari Guksu

Combine kimchi brine, cold water, sugar, Guk-ganjang, minced garlic, gochugaru, and sesame oil in a large bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Cover and chill the broth thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the garnishes: Slice the aged kimchi into bite-sized pieces. Julienne the cucumber. Halve the boiled egg. Thinly slice the green onion.

Cook the Somen noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Immediately drain the noodles and rinse them thoroughly under very cold running water, rubbing gently to remove excess starch. Drain well and chill the noodles in an ice bath or refrigerator until completely cold.