Soju: The Secret to Korea's Drinking Culture

Have you ever heard of soju? This clear, colorless, and slightly sweet alcoholic beverage is the most popular drink in Korea. It is consumed in almost every occasion and has been a staple in Korean drinking culture for decades. Soju is not only a drink, but it also has a significant cultural significance in Korea. In this article, we will explore what soju is, its history, and why it is so important to Korean culture.

What is Soju?

Soju is a clear and colorless distilled spirit that is made from a mixture of water, ethanol, and flavorings such as rice, barley, or wheat. It has a slightly sweet taste and can be consumed straight or mixed with other drinks. Soju typically has an alcohol content ranging from 16% to 45%, depending on the brand and type.

Soju is often compared to vodka, but it has a unique taste and is much more popular in Korea. It is also much cheaper than other alcoholic drinks, making it accessible to everyone. In fact, soju is so popular that it has surpassed vodka as the world's best-selling liquor.

History of Soju

The origins of soju can be traced back to the 13th century when Mongolians introduced the distillation process to Korea. The first soju was made from rice wine and was primarily used for medicinal purposes. However, it wasn't until the 1920s that soju became the drink of choice for Koreans.

During the Japanese occupation of Korea, the government restricted the production and sale of Korean liquor, including the popular rice wine. To counter this, Korean distillers began producing soju using a mixture of ethanol, water, and other ingredients. This marked the beginning of modern soju production in Korea.

After the Korean War, soju became even more popular as it was cheap and readily available. In the 1960s, the government introduced a new law that allowed distillers to use sweet potatoes as a source of starch. This led to the production of a new type of soju that was sweeter and smoother than traditional rice soju. Today, there are over 1,000 brands of soju in Korea, each with its unique taste and style.

Soju in Korean Culture

Soju is not just a drink in Korea; it is a cultural phenomenon. It is often consumed during traditional Korean gatherings, such as weddings, funerals, and family reunions. It is also a common sight at Korean bars and restaurants, where it is served alongside a variety of Korean dishes.

One of the unique aspects of soju culture in Korea is the drinking etiquette. When drinking soju with a group of people, it is customary to pour the drink for others and to receive the drink with both hands. The person who pours the drink is called the "janggun," and it is their responsibility to ensure that everyone's glass is never empty.

Another unique aspect of soju culture in Korea is the "anju." Anju refers to the food that is served alongside soju. Korean food is known for its variety of side dishes, and anju is no different. Popular anju dishes include spicy chicken feet, fried chicken, and Korean pancakes.

Soju is also a symbol of unity and togetherness in Korean culture. It is often used to break down social barriers and to bring people closer together. Drinking soju with someone is a sign of trust and respect, and it is often used to build relationships and business partnerships.