What is Soju? A Guide to Korea’s Most Popular Alcoholic Drink

The world of alcoholic Asian drinks is a wide and interesting one, especially for those who haven't set foot into it yet. If you tend to stick to your beer or wine of choice, you may be surprised by how many kinds of Asian alcohol you have yet to try. From sake to soju to baijiu, there’s a lot to explore. 

In particular, Korea’s national drink, soju, has become increasingly popular in the western world in recent years. But that’s not to say it’s been existing in obscurity thus far; in fact, it is the best-selling liquor by volume worldwide.

And we happen to stock plenty of soju drink flavours for when you’re ready for a taste! 

What is Soju?

Soju is sometimes referred to as ‘Korean vodka’ and is a clear spirit of usually about 20% alcohol by volume. In reality, this makes it a lighter, lower-alcohol version of vodka, which tends to start at 40%.

Traditionally, soju was made with rice, but following a period of short rice supply, there was a ban and soju makers had to turn to other forms of starch, like sweet potatoes.

The ban, enacted in 1965, has since been lifted, but many modern soju drinks still use ethanol from sweet potatoes.

What Does Soju Taste Like?

In its most basic form, soju has a relatively neutral taste, similar to vodka but far less harsh and with an element of sweetness.

Many modern brands sell flavoured soju, usually in a plethora of fruity flavours, to create delicious and refreshing drinks with that alcoholic twist.

Why is Soju So Popular?

Many people enjoy soju because of its mild yet versatile taste – it can be paired with a wide variety of food and enjoyed on any occasion. 

Its low alcohol content also means people can continue drinking during social gatherings without getting overly intoxicated. 

How Do You Drink Soju?

In Korea, there is often a social, interactive element to drinking soju. It is custom to pour other people’s drinks and not your own. This is the same for Japanese sake.

Soju is commonly poured into small shot-like glasses and enjoyed with food. The term ‘anju’ refers to food that is eaten alongside alcohol. Dishes often enjoyed with soju include:

• Fried chicken
• Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
• Korean BBQ
• Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly)
• Grilled squid or octopus
• Kimchi-jjigae (kimchi stew)
• Instant ramen

There is no limit to what you can eat with soju.

What are the Best Soju Flavours?

When it comes to the best soju flavours, we’ve got you covered! Some of the most popular soju drink flavours include:

• Strawberry soju
• Grape soju
• Blueberry soju
• Yoghurt soju
• Watermelon soju
• Lychee soju
• Grapefruit soju

One of the most sought after soju flavours is Jinro Grape Soju, which we stock here at Oriental Mart.

What are the Best Soju Brands?

If you’re not sure which flavour to go for and are overwhelmed by choice, maybe you’d prefer to make your decision by brand. There are several leading soju brands that are globally recognised; you can’t go wrong when reaching for:

• Jinro/Chamisul soju
• Chum Churum soju
• Good Day soju

Where Can You Buy Soju in the UK?

You can pick up soju from your local Korean supermarket or other Asian grocery stores.

For a more convenient option, you can also buy soju online – like from our online Korean supermarket. Be sure to check out our range of soju and other Korean drinks, including makgeolli.

Please note that you will have to be 18 or over to purchase soju like you would with any other kind of alcohol.

Want to find out more about drinks in Korea? Check out our guide to the most popular drink in Korea.