Soju is a clear, colorless distilled beverage from Korea, traditionally made from rice, wheat, or barley. It is the country’s national drink, commonly consumed during meals or mixed into cocktails.
It is a common sight to see alcoholic beverages in the country, from roadside eateries to chic restaurants. It is a typical companion for Koreans during meals.
So, what is soju?
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Soju is a clear and colourless distilled beverage traditionally made from rice, wheat or barley. When a rice shortage led the Korean government to ban using rice to make soju, manufacturers converted to starches such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and tapiocas. Even though the ban was lifted eventually, present-day producers continued using these alternatives, which has also resulted in lower alcohol content.
Soju has an alcohol content typically around 16–25%. This makes it stronger than beer and wine, but weaker than vodkas of 40%, which is why its taste is usually described as diluted vodka. It is commonly consumed during meals, or mixed in cocktails.
Soju is easily identified by its signature bright green glass bottle. You can find these green bottles in convenience stores for approximately KRW1,800 (USD1.56) each. This affordability is one reason why soju is every Korean’s favourite drink.
Why do Koreans love soju so much?
Traditionally, Koreans drank alcohol to celebrate holidays. In the present day, alcohol is consumed regardless of events. Koreans drink together as a mode of social interaction to build relationships between family, friends or coworkers.
Another reason for Koreans’ affection for soju is the different variations that can be enjoyed using it.
1.
Soju Bomb
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Also widely known as somaek, it is created by dropping one shot of soju into a glass of beer. The aftereffect can hit hard, like a bomb, as its name suggests.
Bonus Tip
For those with a sweet tooth, prepare one shot of coke followed by one shot of soju and half a glass of beer. You will get a sweet and refreshing finish to your somaek. Another trending cocktail is yogurt soju. Mix soju, soda and yogurt and you’ve made your own yogurt soju.
2.
Fruit-Flavoured Soju
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There is a variety of fruit-flavoured soju available, with flavours like grapefruit, green grape or peach soju. There are also yogurt-flavoured and strawberry-flavoured soju. Everyone will have something for themselves.
3.
Watermelon Soju
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This is another well-known drink you can find in Korea and abroad. It is not your typical watermelon-flavoured soju, but soju in a watermelon. The sweet flavour of the watermelon fruit takes away the alcohol taste, making it a refreshing choice during summer.
Bonus Tip
You can make your own watermelon soju. Remove the top of a watermelon and empty its flesh, so the watermelon looks like a bowl. Blend the flesh and mix it together with some soju (according to your preference) before putting it all back into the watermelon bowl. Serve it with ice cubes and you’re done.
Considering the array of soju cocktails that can be concocted, it is not unexpected why soju is a hot favourite.
Drinking Etiquette
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Manners are crucial in Korean drinking culture. When Koreans become of age to consume alcohol, their elders teach them how to drink, including the culture and etiquette.
Here are some general rules for drinking in South Korea: Never pour your own drink. Bow your head when you receive your first glass from an elder, with both hands holding your glass. Turn your body away slightly to drink, while covering the mouth and glass with one hand. Finish the first drink in one shot. After the first drink, glasses are filled up as soon as they are empty. You may keep your glass half-filled as a subtle indication that you don’t want to drink any further.
When to drink soju?
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Soju is best paired with kimchi stews or grilled pork belly. You will always spot these green bottles on diners’ tables in Korean restaurants. Soju is said to cleanse the oil and remove food odour from the mouth, making it the best accompaniment to meals.
Soju can be enjoyed at room temperature, but it is best served chilled in summer and warm in winter. Do not add ice to the drink. Soju is poured into shot glasses and taken as a shot. It is considered rude to drink straight from the bottle.
Soju in the Overseas Market
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Soju is currently exported to more than 80 countries. The largest manufacturer, Hite Jinro, exports more than $50 million worth of soju in just a year. Hite Jinro reported an average annual growth of 15% for the three most recent years in its sales volume in the United States. Drop by the nearest Korean mart and you may just find one there.
Tourist Secrets
“Gunbae” and “Jjan” are the two terms you may hear during a toast, which means “Cheers!”. “Gunbae” is the formal way, recommended for use with coworkers and superiors, while “Jjan” is commonly used among friends.
Now that you have learned more about soju, Korea’s national drink, have a shot like the locals do when you’re in South Korea!
Check out our recommendations on the cool souvenirs to get while you're in Korea!
Related travel guides: Korean Hanbok: All You Need To Know About Korea's National Costume.
