Unlock the Secrets of Korean Soju: A Must-Try Experience for Drink Enthusiasts

1. What is Soju

Soju (燒酒) is a distilled alcoholic beverage that holds a unique and cherished place in Korean culture. It frequently appears in Korean media and is a key feature of Hallyu, the Korean Wave, which has brought Korean cuisine and culture to global prominence. While the term “soju” traditionally referred to a high-quality distilled spirit, the modern landscape of soju consumption is dominated by a more accessible version known as diluted soju.

Traditionally, soju was a premium spirit made by distilling clear rice wines (cheongju). This traditional soju was a luxurious drink, enjoyed mainly by the wealthy and noble classes. It was expensive and exclusive, reflecting its status as a high-end distilled beverage. Today, traditional soju remains a premium product, comparable in price and prestige to other high-quality distilled spirits.

In contrast, diluted soju has become the more common form of this beloved beverage. Produced by mixing industrial ethanol with water and various flavorings, diluted soju is lighter and smoother, with an alcohol content typically around 20%. This version of soju is known for its clean, crisp taste and versatility. It is often enjoyed neat, with meals, or as a base for cocktails. Diluted soju is one of the most affordable alcoholic beverages in Korea, making it accessible to a broad range of consumers.

The popularity of diluted soju can be attributed to its affordability and approachable flavor profile. It has become a staple in Korean dining and social gatherings, where it plays a significant role in fostering camaraderie and social interaction. The tradition of sharing soju, where individuals pour drinks for each other, is a cherished part of Korean social etiquette that enhances bonds between friends and family.

Soju, whether in its traditional or diluted form, is a cornerstone of Korean culinary heritage. Traditional soju offers a taste of Korea’s refined past, while diluted soju represents the inclusive and communal spirit of contemporary Korean culture. Both forms of soju highlight the evolution of this iconic drink and its enduring popularity. Through its rich history and modern adaptations, soju continues to be celebrated for its unique flavors and cultural significance.

2. Diluted Soju

Diluted soju (稀釋式燒酒) is a widely consumed type of alcohol in modern Korea, characterized by its lower quality compared to traditional distilled soju. It’s made by diluting high-purity industrial alcohol (ethanol) with water and adding sweeteners, resulting in a drink that’s often perceived as harsher and more potent than distilled soju. Critically, diluted soju is sometimes seen as the epitome of low-quality drinking culture, consumed primarily for intoxication. Phrases like “edible alcohol” are not uncommon in disparaging descriptions of this beverage.

The production of diluted soju involves adding water and food additives to continuously distilled ethanol. In essence, it’s akin to watered-down ethanol. If one were to compare the relationship between traditional and diluted soju, it’s somewhat similar to that between butter and margarine. Sweeteners used in diluted soju have evolved over time, including sorbitol, saccharin, oligosaccharides in the past, and more recently, xylitol, aspartame, and stevioside.

Diluted soju shares similarities with vodka, as both are made by diluting distilled alcohol with water. The main difference lies in the addition of sweeteners to soju. Therefore, a common vodka diluted 1:1 with water and mixed with sugar can mimic the taste of commercial diluted soju.

Despite its reputation, diluted soju remains popular in Korea due to its affordability and accessibility. It’s often consumed in social settings and is a staple in many Korean dining experiences.

3. Perspective of Diluted Soju

Diluted soju is an integral part of South Korean culture, and opinions about it among Koreans are diverse and multifaceted. While the following insights don’t represent all Koreans, they offer a glimpse into some commonly held views:

3-1. Positive

The positive aspects of diluted soju are primarily related to the characteristics of the alcohol itself.

3-1-1. Affordable Prices

The ability to mass-produce diluted soju at a low cost is one of its key advantages. This characteristic was a primary reason for the development of diluted soju in Japan during the industrialization of the 19th century. When compared to other distilled spirits, the affordability of diluted soju offers several benefits:

1. More Budget for Accompaniments: The low price of diluted soju allows consumers to spend more on side dishes or “anju,” enhancing the overall dining experience.
2. Less Financial Burden: Even when consumed in larger quantities, diluted soju does not impose a significant financial burden, making it a popular choice for gatherings.
3. Competitive Pricing: Despite being a distilled spirit, diluted soju is competitively priced, comparable to lower-alcohol fermented beverages like beer and makgeolli. This affordability is especially notable given its alcohol content.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: In terms of the absolute amount of consumable alcohol, soju offers excellent value for money, which is hard to find in other domestic products. For example, purchasing a similar amount of alcohol in the form of traditional distilled soju could cost between 10,000 to 20,000 won, significantly higher than the price of diluted soju.

These price points have contributed to making diluted soju a go-to drink for many in Korea, striking a balance between cost, alcohol content, and cultural significance. Despite some price increases over time, it remains one of the most accessible and popular alcoholic beverages in the country.

3-1-2. Perfect Pairings: Harmonizing Different Foods with Soju

While some may criticize diluted soju for its lack of distinctive taste and aroma, this can also be viewed as an advantage, particularly when paired with food. Here’s an overview of how this characteristic of diluted soju can be beneficial:

1. Clean and No Aftertaste: The lack of a strong, lingering aftertaste in diluted soju makes it an ideal beverage to accompany meals. Its cleanliness on the palate ensures that it doesn’t compete with the flavors of the food.
2. Neutral Flavor Profile: Unlike other traditional Korean liquors with distinctive tastes and aromas, diluted soju’s neutrality, often described as a mild sweetness without any aroma, means it rarely interferes with or overpowers the taste of the food.
3. Affordable Alternative: While it may not enhance the taste and aroma of food like other traditional Korean spirits (makgeolli, cheongju, distilled soju), its affordability makes it a practical substitute, especially in a dining context.
4. Complements Modern Korean Cuisine: Many contemporary Korean dishes feature bold flavors – spicy, salty, greasy, or stimulating. The subtle nature of diluted soju complements these dishes well without adding to their intensity.
5. Functional in a Dining Setting: The ‘tastelessness’ or neutrality of diluted soju is advantageous, particularly in environments where access to traditional, higher-quality spirits is limited. It serves as a functional substitute.
6. Allows for More Food Consumption: With a higher alcohol content than beer or makgeolli but less filling, soju enables more room for food, enhancing the dining experience.

In summary, the subtle characteristics of diluted soju, coupled with its affordability, make it a popular choice for many Korean diners. It’s a versatile drink that complements a wide range of Korean dishes without overshadowing their flavors.

Koreans enjoy pairing soju with almost all kinds of foods. Soju consumed with Korean BBQ and cold noodles (naengmyeon) is a combination almost everyone loves. Those particularly fond of soju also enjoy it with fried chicken.

3-1-3. Cocktail

The simplicity and affordability of diluted soju make it an ideal base for mixed drinks or cocktails. Its neutral profile allows it to blend seamlessly with various other beverages and additives, creating synergistic combinations. Here are some notable examples:

1. Somaek (Soju-Beer Mix): This is a popular mix of soju and beer. The combination has gained such popularity that it significantly impacts the sales of both beverages, creating a synergistic effect.
2. Other Soju Cocktails: There are various other soju-based cocktails, such as mixing soju with Baekseju to make Oshipseju, Gojingamraeju, Sobeksanmaek, Socol (Soju-Cola), and Hongcho Soju. These mixes showcase the versatility of soju as a base for cocktails.
3. Mixing with Diverse Beverages: Soju is often mixed with a variety of other drinks like yogurt, cola, milk, coffee, and fruit juices, demonstrating its adaptability in various flavor profiles.
4. Citrus Combinations: Adding fresh citrus juices like lemon, grapefruit, or yuzu to soju can neutralize the strong alcohol smell, making it smoother and more palatable.

These creative mixtures highlight how diluted soju’s neutral taste and high adaptability make it a popular choice for experimenting with different drink recipes, broadening its appeal beyond traditional consumption methods. This versatility has contributed to its enduring popularity in Korea’s dynamic drinking culture.

3-2. Negative

The negative aspects of diluted soju in South Korea are often intertwined with cultural and social phenomena.

3-2-1. The Worst Culture

The negative aspects of diluted soju in Korea are deeply rooted in cultural and societal norms. Here’s a comprehensive look at these aspects:

1. Cultural Perception and Consumption Habits: In Korea, soju, particularly the diluted variety, is often seen as the standard choice of alcohol. There’s a prevalent notion that spending more on higher-priced drinks is pretentious or wasteful. Diluted soju is typically consumed not for its taste or quality, but for its ability to induce quick intoxication due to its low cost and high alcohol content.
2. Impact on Traditional Alcohol Culture: The 20th century saw a decline in the culture of enjoying quality traditional liquors in Korea, with diluted soju dominating the market. The lack of flavor and quality in diluted soju has led to a culture where consuming alcohol is more about the effects than the experience.
3. Effects on Dining and Drinking Culture: The inexpensive nature of diluted soju encourages a culture where more money is spent on side dishes, often resulting in excessive food waste. This contrasts with cultures where dining focuses more on the food than the alcohol.
4. Media Influence: Popular media often portrays the consumption of diluted soju in a positive light, sometimes encouraging excessive drinking as a way to relieve stress.
5. Comparisons with Other Cultures: In Western cultures, dependency on alcohol is generally viewed negatively, unlike the sometimes glamorized depiction of soju consumption in Korean media.
6. Resistance to Change in Alcohol Taxation and Policy: Attempts to reform alcohol taxation to include diluted soju often face political and social challenges. This resistance hinders the diversification of Korea’s alcohol market and the development of a more sophisticated drinking culture.

These aspects illustrate the complex role of diluted soju in Korean society, highlighting the challenges in shifting from a culture of consumption focused on quantity and effects to one that appreciates the quality and experience of drinking.

3-2-2. Criminal

The widespread consumption of diluted soju in Korea, due to its affordability and high ethanol content, has contributed to various social issues, similar to how cheap gin once fueled alcoholism in 18th-century England. Key concerns include:

1. Alcohol Addiction: The cheap price and high alcohol content of diluted soju have led to a rise in alcohol addiction among the Korean population.
2. Alcohol-Related Crimes and Accidents: Many alcohol-related crimes and accidents, such as drunk driving and violent behavior, are often linked to excessive consumption of diluted soju. This results in significant social and economic costs.
3. Notable Incidents: Tragic incidents, like the 2023 Daejeon school zone drunk driving case, have been attributed to individuals intoxicated by diluted soju, including a former public official in this case. Such incidents highlight the serious consequences of soju-related alcohol abuse.
4. Workplace Consumption: In some labor-intensive industries, like construction, it’s not uncommon for workers to consume diluted soju during meal breaks, raising safety concerns.
5. Perceived Leniency in Punishments: There’s a perception that penalties for drunk driving in Korea are less severe compared to other countries. This has been a subject of controversy, especially in cases involving public officials.
6. Emergency Medical Centers for Intoxicated Individuals: Korea uniquely hosts special medical centers for treating severely intoxicated individuals. The existence of these centers, while necessary, also points to the severity of the alcohol consumption issue. Discussions in the media and political circles about expanding these centers reflect the ongoing challenge of addressing alcohol abuse while also catering to the interests of the majority who consume diluted soju and the influential soju manufacturers.

This situation underscores the complex relationship between diluted soju, its cultural acceptance, and the resulting social and health challenges in Korea. There’s a growing need for a balanced approach that addresses these issues while considering the cultural significance of soju in Korean society.

4. Varieties of Soju

Diluted soju varies by region in South Korea, with each regional variety having its unique characteristics primarily influenced by the local water and sweeteners used in production. However, distinguishing between these regional varieties can be quite challenging for those without a highly refined sense of taste. Key points include:

1. Regional Differences: The specific features of soju in each region are subtly influenced by the type of water and the choice of sweeteners used. These regional variations add a local touch to the soju, although the differences might be subtle.
2. Alcohol Content: Historically, the alcohol content in diluted soju was typically over 20%. However, in contemporary times, most diluted soju varieties have an alcohol content lower than 20%. Soju with higher alcohol content today is often crafted to evoke a sense of nostalgia or traditional flavor.
3. Travel and Soju Tasting: Sampling the local soju can be an enjoyable part of traveling across different regions in South Korea. It offers a unique way to experience regional variations and cultural nuances.

Exploring these regional soju varieties provides insight into the diverse cultural landscape of South Korea, where even a beverage as common as soju can have distinct regional identities. This exploration adds an interesting dimension to the travel experience in Korea.

4-1. Seoul, Gyeonggi Province

1. Jinro: Commonly known as “Dukkeobi Soju” (Toad Soju) due to its iconic toad logo. It has an alcohol content of 25%. Jinro is more commonly found in large supermarkets than in bars or restaurants.
2. Chamisul Fresh: A popular choice in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do, this soju is typically what you’ll get if you ask for “Chamisul” in restaurants. As of December 2023, it has an alcohol content of 16.5%, which is relatively low. Originally, it was 19.5% but has been gradually reduced over time. The bottle cap is green.
3. Chamisul Original: This variety has a higher alcohol content than Chamisul Fresh, at 20.1%. It’s less popular compared to Chamisul Fresh and is identifiable by its red bottle cap.
4. Jinro is Back: A revamped version of the original Jinro soju with reduced alcohol content, it’s packaged in a distinctive sky-blue glass bottle, contrasting with the typical green bottles of other standard soju brands.

4-2. Gangwon Province

1. Cheoeumcheoreom: This soju has an alcohol content of 17.5%. While it originates from the Gangwon-do region, it’s widely available and popular in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do as well.
2. Cheoeumcheoreom Sunhan (Mild): A milder version with an alcohol content of 16.8%, lower than the standard Cheoeumcheoreom.
3. Cheoeumcheoreom Jinhan (Strong): This variety has a higher alcohol content of 21%, making it stronger than the standard Cheoeumcheoreom.
4. Cheoeumcheoreom Ro: Launched in 2022, this product is gaining a following in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do. It’s notable for not using aspartame or other sweeteners commonly found in other soju brands, positioning it as a unique choice in the market.

4-3. North Chungcheong Province

1. Siwonhan Cheongpung: The standard version with an alcohol content of 17.2%. This is the more commonly found variety.
2. Siwonhan Cheongpung 20.5%: A stronger version with an alcohol content of 20.5%, catering to those who prefer a higher alcohol content in their soju.

4-4. Daejeon, South Chungcheong Province

• Ijeurin: Formerly known as ‘O2rin’, this soju is a representative brand of Daejeon. In restaurants, you can order it by saying, ‘Please give me Rin.’ It has an alcohol content of 17.2% and enjoys unparalleled popularity in the Daejeon region.

4-5. Daegu, North Gyeongsang Province

1. Matitneun Cham: The most popular soju in Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province (경상북도), it has an alcohol content of 16.5%.
2. Geumbokju 25%: This soju has an alcohol content of 25%, embodying an old-fashioned soju style.

4-6. Busan

1. C1 Soju: As Busan’s signature soju, it has an alcohol content of 19%, which is higher than many other regional sojus. Interestingly, it shares its nickname with “Siwonhan Cheongpung,” the representative soju of Chungcheongbuk-do. In restaurants, asking for “Siwon (C1)” will get you this soju.
2. C1 Premium: This is a stronger version of C1 Soju with an alcohol content of 21%.
3. C1 Diamond: A lower-alcohol version of C1 Soju, with an alcohol content of 16.9%.
4. Daesun: This soju has an alcohol content of 16.5%, making it a lower-strength option.
5. Ye: Previously known as “Jeulgeowoye,” this soju has been renamed to “Ye” and has an alcohol content of 16.7%. “Jeulgeowoye” is a Busan dialect for “Jeulgeowoyo” (meaning ‘joyful’ or ‘happy’). Notably, when looking for “Ye” soju at a funeral, it’s provided under the name “Geuriwoye,” which is the Busan dialect for “Geuriwoyo” (meaning ‘miss you’ or ‘longing’).

4-7. Ulsan, South Gyeongsang Province

In Ulsan and South Gyeongsang Province (경상남도), local soju brands are available, and similarly, Busan’s C1 soju can also be found in these regions. Here’s an overview of some soju brands from these areas:

1. White: This soju has an alcohol content of 19%. It is available in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam-do.
2. Jo-eun Day: A popular soju in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam-do, it has a lower alcohol content of 16.9%. “Jo-eun Day” is a play on the phrase “Jo-eun De” in the Busan dialect, meaning “it’s good.” Interestingly, for funeral settings where the name and atmosphere might not align, it’s supplied under the name “Uri-ga Hamkke Haetdeon Jo-eun Day” (우리가 함께 했던 좋은데이), translating to “The Good Day We Spent Together.”

4-8. North Jeolla Province

In North Jeolla Province (전라북도), the region’s own soju brands are relatively less popular compared to the more widely consumed brands from Seoul and Gyeonggi regions, such as “Chamisul” and “Cheoeumcheoreom.” However, there is a local option available:

• Hite Soju: This soju, with an alcohol content of 19%, can be found in Jeollabuk-do. It is primarily available in restaurants.

4-9. Gwangju, South Jeolla Province

1. Ipsaeju (잎새주): Known as the representative soju of its region, this unique soju includes ingredients like maple leaves and natural asparagine. It has an alcohol content of 17.3%.
2. Cheonnyeonae (천년애): Launched in 2018, commemorating the 1000th year of the name ‘Jeolla-do’ being used. This soju has an alcohol content of 17.2%.
3. Yeosu Bam Bada (여수 밤바다): This soju has a lower alcohol content of 16.5%. Its name translates to “Yeosu Night Sea,” evoking the scenic beauty of the coastal city of Yeosu.

4-10. Jeju Island

1. Hallasan 21%: This strong soju, with an alcohol content of 21%, is made using volcanic bedrock water. It’s a must-try for visitors to Jeju Island, known for its distinct flavor and connection to the island’s natural environment.
2. Hallasan 17%: A milder version of Hallasan soju, this variety has an alcohol content of 17%. It offers a less intense option for those who prefer a smoother soju experience.