Soju is the national drink of South Korea, and it is currently loved by people all around the world. This particular drink is ranked first in the world, not only based on the amount sold but also because it is the most well-known. The market for soju continues to explode, especially in the United States. Have you, at any time, thought about “What is soju?” or “Why is soju famous in Korea?” If yes, you have found the ‘perfect place’.
Let’s explore this famous Korean drink behind your questions’ answers.
What Is Soju?
Soju is a clear, neutral spirit that was originally crafted from grain. Although it is essentially connected with rice, soju does not bear the same definition as rice wine, such as sake. By carrying out the process of distillation, soju becomes more similar to vodka so that it has more or less the same ABV, but it still contains a lower volume of alcohol. Conventionally, soju’s alcohol content varies from 17% to 45%, approximately half of vodka’s ABV.
Is it soju vodka?
No, soju is not and is never the same as vodka. So even if the commonalities between the two are there, like clear and non-specific taste, the process of their production as well as the taste is essentially different. Soju is always light and soft compared to the more raw and pungent vodka.
What Is Soju Made From?
Soju refers to the fermented grains such as rice, barley, wheat, and, in some cases, sweet potatoes, tapioca, and even corn that it is made from. The nature of the basic ingredients also varies, and therefore, different soju types get their distinct flavors. For example, while some premium soju are produced from rice, others might utilize wheat or barley, giving a sweeter or a more savory taste. You can still purchase soju that is produced from substantially atypical ingredients such as Korean plums and pine needles, like Dam Soul Pine soju.
This variability of raw materials is the core of the argument behind soju being so popular. The brand and style of soju are relevant for what soju is made from, in the sense that the fermentation process epitomizes the drink as a whole.
Why Do Koreans Love Soju So Much?
Soju So Much? Korea highly esteems soju as its national drink. It is not merely just a drink; it rather helps people socialize and celebrate. Primarily, soju is a companion to a rich Korean meal and the lifeline of celebrations. It means that while it is a regular sight during Korean barbecues, apart from the grilled meats, and probably appearing at traditional Korean dinners, it is also more often than not shared in shots during a gathering.
Koreans show respect to a person and the drinking atmosphere itself by following proper soju drinking etiquette. As an example, pouring soju to an older person or someone of a higher status requires that you do it while holding the bottle with both of your hands as a ‘sign of respect’. Why do you think the Koreans are so passionate about soju? The answer is not only the taste but also the social interactions and the rituals that connect people.
How Strong Is Soju?
Soju is usually of low alcoholic strength, with 20% to 25% alcohol content, but some stronger types can have up to 45% alcohol content. Thus, it has less power than vodka, the alcohol content of which is set at 40% or higher. Is soju more ‘potent’ than vodka? No, however, it does have a strong kick to it, especially when it is drunk quickly or consumed in large quantities.
If the first time you drank soju was as a newbie, the best choice might be to go with a low alcohol by volume (ABV) bottle. Craft sojus have more complex flavors, which is why they are rarely very strong in taste, and for the best, you don’t need any particular mixing.
What Does Soju Taste Like?
The characteristics of soju can change immensely depending on the raw materials used. The majority of mass-produced soju is of ‘neutral flavour’, and it doesn’t have that much of a taste, yet it has a bit of a sweet aftertaste. This version of soju is inexpensive because it is made from cheap ingredients like sweet potatoes, barley, or wheat that are abundant in the region, and often, the industrial sweeteners may have been added to make the product more saleable.
Conversely, artisanal soju, which people tend to appreciate these days more, comes with a much deeper and more intricate flavor. The soju, in which rice is the main ingredient, is usually sweeter, whereas the one that is based on barley is usually nutty or more savory in taste. For example, the soju that is made using golden barley with a plum touch could feel like a Korean plum or stone fruit. What are the characteristics of soju? It’s a clean, light, and bold drink with diverse flavours, such as fruity and earthy, which make it worth the slow enjoyment.
How to Drink Soju
Soju is to be traditionally served cold; in this way, it is poured into a small shot glass, mainly vodka. In Korea, it is a common thing to share shots with friends, hence making it a very social drink. It does not matter if you shoot it or sip it; there is a proper way to drink soju with etiquette and respect for the people around you.
- Straight from the Bottle: Some people prefer pouring the drink into the glasses. In some less formal places, people even use it directly from the bottle. Nevertheless, if you are already drinking soju from a glass and need to top it up, be polite and grab the bottle.
- So-maek (Soju + Beer): One of the most fun ways to drink ‘soju in Korea’ is by mixing it with beer. The soju is a mix of “soju” and “maekju” (beer). The taste is doubled with the combination of soju and beer; the drink becomes very delicious and can be taken together with Korean fried chicken or sticky wings, which are salty.
- Over Ice: By putting soju in a glass with ice, you can go with another favorite way to enjoy it. This way, the drink gets a little diluted, which eases the alcohol flavor, and the whole drink becomes more refreshing.
Is the right way to drink soju very important? While traditions are indeed a part of Korean culture, the most important thing is that you feel good. It’s not necessary to be obsessed with the “correct” way to drink soju — just enjoy and savour the flavours!
Is Soju Healthy?
Is Soju Good for You? While used wisely, soju can contribute to overall health and even be part of a weight management diet at the same time with a proper selection of food. The lower alcoholic content makes it a healthier alternative for those who want to enjoy a drink without being carried away. Nevertheless, when soju is consumed excessively, it will be harmful like any other alcoholic beverage.
People are always wondering whether soju has any health benefits. For example, there are still those who claim that soju (mostly the handcrafted types of the product) may contain antioxidant substances due to natural raw materials used in the distillation process. Nevertheless, it’s still important to be aware not to drink too much, as an excess of anything can be detrimental to your health.
Why Is Soju Banned in Some Countries?
Soju has been regulated and restricted, or even prohibited, in particular countries due to the cultural inappropriateness, safety hazards, or alcohol content. In some areas, alcohol is only sold at certain times, and soju’s high alcohol level could lead it to be more affected by this regulation. What is the reason for soju to be banned in some places? The presence of alcohol and the bigger worries about alcohol’s effects on our bodies are at the core of the reason for the illegalisation of the drink in those locations.
Is Soju Haram in Islam?
Soju, much like other alcoholic drinks, has ethanol, which is a haram (forbidden) ingredient in Islam. Islamic dietary practices entail the nonuse of alcohol; therefore, soju is not fit for Muslims to consume.
Jinro Soju Alcohol Percentage
Jinro is among the well-known soju companies outside South Korea, and its alcohol strength level is different according to the product. A 20% ABV is characteristic of the traditional Jinro soju, while there are also other variations with more or less strength, depending on someone’s taste.
Soju vs. Sake
Are soju and sake the same? Even though they are both Asian alcoholic beverages, they are produced in different countries and through diverse methods. Sake is Japan’s fermented rice wine, while soju is Korean distilled liquor. Soju vs. sake—the biggest difference comes from the fact that sake is fermented just like beer, while soju is distilled, similarly to vodka.
Conclusion
Soju is a spirit that represents more than just a country, in this case, Korea. It is a very versatile liquor that has a very rich history, a wide range of flavours, and a global fan base. Soju, be it neat, with ice, or in a cocktail, still contributes to a perfect experience for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. As its fame grows throughout the whole world, make sure not to miss out on an opportunity to try this traditional Korean drinking item.
Why is Soju so popular in Korea and Worldwide? AT the YouTube video
Note: the content here provides insights on the history, manufacturing, and cultural relevance of soju, so serving only educational purposes. It is meant to inform and advance knowledge, not to support drinking.
