When we first arrived in Songtan, South Korea – just south of Seoul – in late 2015, we had heard of the drink and were eager to taste soju. Since that time, it seems that South Korean culture has taken the world by storm. Maybe it’s the K-Pop, or maybe the Olympics have brought the attention, perhaps it’s the dumpling-like “supreme leader” to the north that’s bringing the attention. Regardless, the nation has brought soju to near center-stage in the world of alcohol – and that’s a good thing.

To Taste Soju – A Flavor of South Korea

Soju is the most popular alcoholic drink in South Korea and is sold – and consumed – more than any other alcohol in the world – mostly by South Koreans. In fact, the Koreans drink more than anyone else in the world, over twice the amount of the next contender, the Russians – move over comrade.

It is common to see people wandering around at night in a drunken stagger or occasionally hear someone throw up outside all the way into the morning. So common is it, that they even have a term for it – “kimchi flower” – because you may find a little “flower” of kimchi on the sidewalk from where someone gave back their kimchi.

Drinking is such a common part of the culture that for some individuals may have almost a social obligation to drink with their boss and/or coworkers. South Koreans really have a work hard, play hard culture. After a long day working, don’t be surprised to find the locals unwinding with a taste of soju bottle or two. Unlike in the United States, in South Korea, you can legally drink just about anywhere.

What’s It Taste Like Already?

Traditionally made from rice, Soju – or “burned liquor” – is actually a pretty easy drink. When you taste soju, it is comparable to vodka, in that it is nearly flavorless. However, unlike vodka, soju is a bit smoother and does not have such a strong burn. To me, it also has a very subtle sake flavor, but I don’t want to catch flak for that. With an ABV of around 15%-20% normally, this makes it very easy to enjoy.

Soju is certainly starting to make its mark in the United States, and elsewhere I’d imagine, but it still has an air of mystery to a lot of people. It isn’t the easiest liquor to find around the states, and when you do, you’re probably going to be limited to just the plain, traditional soju. Now, there’s nothing wrong with that, but we found that we have a slightly different preference.

Enter flavored soju, a rather new idea in the realm of soju. It is also sometimes called mixju, where “ju” means liquor. This was our alcohol of choice while in Korea, both for the taste and the price. We typically bought our soju in a spur of the moment kind of way – from our local 7/11. Considering that it was less than 100 feet from our place, that spur of the moment tended to happen most nights.

Tell Me About That Soju

Soju ABV

Regular soju ranges from 16% to 45% depending on the brand, type, etc. Flavored soju is more in the 14%-16% range. Typically though, you’ll find most soju to hover around 20% ABV.

Soju Price

If you’re buying in South Korea, particularly anywhere near Seoul, a normal-sized bottle of soju (375ml) will run about 1700 Won or ~$1.60 USD from the store. If you’re getting it out at a restaurant, you can expect it to be around 4000-5000 Won. If you’re buying in the states though, be prepared to pay closer to $10 for a liter.

Origins of Soju

Soju was developed by Mongolians invading Korea around 700 years ago. The Mongols based their methods off of the Persian techniques for making Arak that they discovered while conquering the Levant. During various rice shortages in the 20th century, ethanol made from tapioca and sweet potatoes made a mark in soju production. In the 90s, soju began to turn back to the origins of grain-based liquor. And in 2015, flavored soju entered the scene.

Where To Taste Soju

Just about anywhere in South Korea. When it comes down to it, I’m not really sure where you can’t get it. We have seen it at 7/11, Emart, Homeplus, restaurants, metro stations – the list goes on. If you’re in the United States, you’re going to have a little bit more difficult. The best way would be to go to your local Korean restaurant, or to order it online via a distributor.

How to Drink Soju

Soju is meant to be consumed socially. Accept your shot glass with both hands and let someone else pour your glass. Turn your head to avoid eye contact with the person who poured your drink. You may then pour someone else’s drink. The first cup should be taken as a shot. After that, you can sip it – though many Koreans continue to take shots. The important thing to remember that the oldest member of your party drinks first and should be the pour to do the initial pour.

Our Soju Reviews

Original

We’ll lead off with the original. It wasn’t our preferred, but that isn’t a knock against it – just our taste. All soju is typically consumed neat, but we would occasionally use mixers with the plain flavor. This is probably considered a no-no, but it lends itself well to mixed drinks.

 

Blue Flavor

It just says blue, but it appears to – obviously – be blueberry flavored.

Pink Flavor

Pink is peach flavor.

 

Grapefruit Flavor

 

Yuja Flavor

 

Pineapple Flavor

 

Red Flavor

 

Also see: our Wine and Beer Reviews