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The green bottle of soju has become an icon of South Korea. However, this is not traditional Korean liquor. Green-bottled soju only appeared in the 1960s when, due to rice shortages during the Korean War, the government banned the traditional distillation of soju and mandated an alcohol content of less than 35%. Since then, soju has been produced using flavorings and has a lower alcohol content than it is today.
Soju culture
In Seoul, soju is sold everywhere. But bars specializing in soju are hard to find. Koreans generally drink alcohol differently from Westerners. Soju is often sipped with snacks, used as a means of socializing rather than simply being a drink. Furthermore, Korea isn't just home to soju; it's also the birthplace of other delicious spirits like makgeolli and cheongju. These are less well-known abroad because they are harder to export than soju, are fresh spirits, and have a short shelf life.
Enjoy soju like a Seoulite.
Before drinking soju, shake the bottle vigorously to enhance the flavor, then gently tap the neck of the bottle before opening. Soju can be drunk chilled in the summer or warmed in the winter.
Additionally, there are a few rules to remember when drinking soju:
- The first glass of soju should always be drunk together, not enjoyed alone.
- Always drink from a glass, not directly from the bottle.
- Don't pour wine into your own glass; only fill others' glasses and wait to be poured for in return.
- Don't leave the people around you sitting with an empty glass.
- If an older person pours you a drink, you should hold the glass with both hands and slightly bow your head to show respect.
- Always use both hands to fill the glass of wine, supporting the body of the bottle with your left hand while placing your right hand on top.
- When drinking alcohol in front of elders, you should turn your face to the side before drinking.
- You can secretly pour the wine away, but you must not refuse to drink it, as this is considered impolite.
Trying soju in Seoul
POJANGMACHA
For a soju-drinking experience like a local, head to a pojangmacha (street food stall). Here, you can enjoy bottled soju paired with street food like pajeon (seafood pancakes) or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). Pojangmachas can be found everywhere in Seoul, even in the glamorous Gangnam district.
CONVENIENCE STORE
This is the most budget-friendly soju experience (approximately 1,700 won, or about 32,000 VND, for a 335ml bottle).
WHITE BEAR MAKGEOLLI
White Bear has two locations, one in Gangnam and one in Myeongdong. The owner is also an expert on Korean liquor, offering not only soju but also a wide variety of other alcoholic beverages. Try Moonbaesool, a unique soju with smooth notes of wild pear and a warm, smoky undertone.
SANULLIM 1992
This trendy bar boasts over 120 different types of Korean liquor. The menu is also extensive if you're looking for Korean-style soju. All staff here are professionally trained in traditional Korean alcoholic beverages.
ZAC (작 - 우리술 BAR)
Zac isn't a typical Seoul bar. The focus here is on drinks, not food. Located in Gangnam, Zac feels like an upscale whiskey bar. It's one of the best places in the city to sample a soju cocktail.
