What is Soju (소주)?

Soju, or 소주 in hangul, the reigning champion of Korean alcoholic beverages, is that cool cousin everyone wants to hang out with at a party. This iconic clear liquor has deep roots in Korean culture and has been captivating taste buds for ages.

While the exact origin of soju remains debated, it made its way to Korea during the Mongol invasions in the 13th century. Known as “arangju” at the time, it quickly gained popularity. Fast forward to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), and soju had become THE drink of choice in Korea. It held many uses in medicine, ceremonies, and even united warriors in times of war. This beverage’s influence knew no bounds!

Besides its incredible flavors, soju holds big cultural significance. Originating from Korea, it is deeply ingrained in the country’s drinking culture and social gatherings. It has become a symbol of celebration, friendship, and the vibrant spirit of Korea. Today, soju has made its mark on the international stage, capturing the hearts of people around the world. With its versatility and wide selection of flavors, it has sparked creativity and innovation, giving rise to unique soju cocktails that reflect diverse cultures and tastes.

If you want to learn more about Korean drinking etiquettes, click here.

In 2022, soju made up 42.1% of alcohol sales in South Korea, equaling to 3.7 trillion won. But, why exactly is soju so popular? Its popularity is deeply ingrained in Korean culture, whether its a celebration, casual hangout or even just meals. Moreover, the affordability of soju played a big role in its skyrocketing popularity. People living in South Korea are able to get their hands on soju as its easily accessible in convenience stores, grocery stores and restaurants.

Adding on to this, the recent rise in popularity of Korean (pop) culture leads foreigners to think that K-culture is cool and trendy. With K-pop artists and idols – like the iconic Blackpink – endorsing soju, its appeal has only increased. Interestingly, soju held an unexpected distinction – it was once ranked among the least favored Korean food items. In a Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs survey, a notable 14.1% of the respondents expressed their least preference for soju. However, the trend has turned as K-pop and K-culture continue to captivate hearts worldwide. The export numbers speak for themselves: in 2022, fruit-flavored soju exports reached an impressive $69.5 million, surpassing the $68 million worth of original soju shipments.

The taste of original or classic soju can be described as clean and smooth, with a little hint of sweetness. Soju’s low alcohol content contributes to its subtle flavor profile, making it the perfect alcohol to drink for any occasion.

As this spirit’s popularity continuously grows, manufacturers saw an opportunity to create an array of flavors to suit every palate! There is fruit-flavored soju, with tasty variations like watermelon, grape, and pineapple. And if you feel like experimenting, flavors like apple mango and yoghurt are also available. There are so many more soju flavors, we’re sure you’ll find your favorite!

Check out our large selection of soju flavors here.

Back in the day, traditional soju was made through distillation, which resulted in a pretty high alcohol content, ranging from 20% to 25%. But nowadays, you’ll find that most soju brands produce soju with an alcohol percentage as low as 12.9%. Producing it this way has made soju more popular as it appealed to a wider audience and of course, its much easier to enjoy it straight. Despite its now lower alcohol content, remember to drink responsibly and be aware of your limits! There’s a reason why people call soju the ‘silent killer’. 😉

One of our favorite ways to enjoy soju is to serve it neat or on the rocks. That way, the smooth and clean flavors of soju can really shine through and give you that ‘authentic’ Korean drinking experience. But if you’re looking for something a little lighter, try mixing soju with soda water or tonic water for a refreshing and bubbly cocktail.

If you crave more variety, try mixing original (or flavored) soju with other ingredients! Try the Mango Melona Soju Cocktail, where the sweet Mango Melona ice cream meets the smoothness of soju, resulting in a refreshing and fruity taste that will teleport you to a tropical paradise. Or try a Strawberry Soju Cocktail, a fresh blend of fresh strawberries, soju, and a hint of sweetness that will trigger your senses. These imaginative concoctions are the perfect way to elevate your drinking experience and impress your friends with your cocktail skills.

No Korean drinking session is complete without some snacks to accompany your soju adventure. At SOJU Bar, we’ve got you covered—from crispy, moist chicken to a filling bibimbap, we offer something for everyone. So, before you take that first sip, don’t forget to say the cherished Korean toast, “Geonbae~!”

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