The green bottle of soju has become a symbol of Korea today. But this is not a traditional Korean liquor, green bottle soju only appeared in the 1960s when there was a rice shortage during the Korean War, the government banned the distillation of traditional soju, and stipulated that the alcohol content must be lower than 35%. Since then, soju has been produced with flavorings with the low alcohol content as it is today.
Soju culture
In Seoul, soju is sold everywhere. But soju bars are hard to find. Koreans drink differently than Westerners. Soju is often sipped with snacks, a way to make friends, not really a drink-to-drink. Moreover, Korea is home to more than just soju, but also other delicious liquors like makgeolli and cheongju. These are less well-known abroad because they are harder to export than soju, are fresh, and have a short shelf life.
Enjoy soju like a Seoulite
Before drinking soju, shake the bottle vigorously to maximize the flavor, then tap the neck of the bottle before opening the cap. Soju can be drunk cold in the summer or warmed up in the winter.
Additionally, there are a few rules to remember when drinking soju:
- The first glass of soju should always be drunk together, never enjoyed alone.
- Always drink from a glass, do not drink directly from the bottle.
- Don't pour your own glass, just fill it for others and wait to be refilled.
- Don't let people sit around with an empty glass.
- If someone older than you pours you wine, you should hold the glass with both hands and bow your head slightly to show respect.
- Always use two hands to fill the glass of wine, the left hand supporting the body of the bottle and the right hand on top.
- When drinking in front of the elderly, turn your face to the side before drinking.
- It is okay to pour out the wine secretly, but it is not okay to refuse to drink, as this is considered impolite.
Soju tasting in SEOUL
POJANGMACHA
For a local soju drinking experience, head to a pojangmacha (streetside food stall). Here, you can pair your green bottled soju with street food like pajeon (seafood pancake) or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). Pojangmachas are everywhere in Seoul, including the glitzy Gangnam area.
CONVENIENCE STORE
This is the most economical soju experience (about 1,700 won, equivalent to 32,000 VND, for a 335 ml bottle).
WHITE BEAR MAKGEOLLI
White Bear has two locations, one in Gangnam and one in Myeongdong. The owner is also an expert in Korean liquor, and there is a wide selection of other liquors besides soju. Try Moonbaesool, a unique soju with smooth notes of wild pear and a warm, smoky flavor.
SANULLIM 1992
This trendy bar has over 120 different types of Korean liquor. The menu is also extensive if you want to drink soju Korean-style. All the staff are well-trained in traditional liquor.
ZAC (작 - 우리술 BAR)
Zac is not your typical Seoul bar. The focus here is on the drinks, not the food. Zac, located in Gangnam, has the feel of a high-end whisky bar. It is one of the best places in the city to sample a soju cocktail.
