Soju

Pour, Share, and Say Geonbae: Your Guide to Korean Soju

Ever watched a K-drama and found yourself mesmerised by that little green bottle? The one that appears on tables during celebratory meals, heartfelt confessions, and lively nights out with friends. The clinking of tiny glasses, the shouts of "Geonbae!", the shared moments of connection—it’s a ritual, and at its heart is Korean soju.

This iconic drink is so much more than just a spirit; it’s a cultural cornerstone, a social glue, and an incredibly fun and versatile drink that’s captured hearts all over the world. It’s the taste of a great night at a Korean BBQ, the perfect partner to spicy and savoury food, and the start of a memorable evening.

But you don’t need a plane ticket to Seoul to get in on the action. The world of soju drink is vibrant, accessible, and waiting to be explored right from your home. If you've been wondering where to buy soju in the UK, your search is over. We’ve made it easy to buy soju online, bringing the best of Korea’s favourite spirit directly to your door.

So, What is Soju Exactly?

Let's start with the basics. What is soju? In simple terms, soju is a clear, distilled spirit from Korea. Traditionally made from rice, this Korean rice wine / spirit is now often made with other starches like sweet potato, barley, or tapioca. It's often called "Korean vodka," but that's only half the story.

While it has a similar clean, neutral profile to vodka, the soju alcohol percentage is typically much lower, usually sitting between 16% and 25% ABV. This makes it smoother, softer, and much more sessionable—a little less 'burn' and a lot more 'ahh'. It's designed for sharing and enjoying over a meal, not for overpowering your palate. The clean, subtly sweet taste of original soju makes it a fantastic canvas for a whole spectrum of flavours.

A Rainbow of Fun: Exploring the World of Flavoured Soju

While the classic, unflavoured soju is a national treasure, the real party starts with flavoured soju. This is where the fun truly begins, transforming the clean spirit into a vibrant, fruity, and incredibly easy-to-drink experience. Jinro soju, Korea’s number one brand, has perfected the art, creating a whole range of flavours that are sweet, refreshing, and dangerously delicious.

Here are some of the best soju flavours from our Jinro soju collection:

• Green Grape Soju: The undisputed champion and a perfect starting point. The taste is unmistakably that of sweet, juicy green grapes—almost like a grown-up white grape juice or a popular grape candy. It’s incredibly refreshing and a massive crowd-pleaser.
• Strawberry Soju: Sweet, fragrant, and bursting with the taste of a perfect summer's day. This strawberry soju is like sipping on fresh-picked berries, with a smooth finish that makes it incredibly easy to enjoy.
• Plum Soju: A little more sophisticated, plum soju offers a beautifully balanced sweet and tart flavour. It has a deeper, more aromatic fruitiness that is both refreshing and complex, reminiscent of juicy, ripe plums.
• Peach Soju: Soft, fragrant, and delicately sweet. The flavour of peach soju is like biting into a sun-drenched, perfectly ripe peach. It’s a gentle, aromatic choice that’s wonderfully smooth.
• Grapefruit Soju: For those who like a bit of a zesty kick! This grapefruit soju is tangy, citrusy, and slightly bitter, perfectly capturing the refreshing taste of real grapefruit. It’s a fantastic palate cleanser and a brilliant partner to rich, fatty foods.

How to Drink Soju: From Tradition to Modern Twists

There’s a beautiful etiquette to enjoying Korean soju, but don’t worry, it’s all about respect and having a good time. Here’s how to drink soju:

1. Serve it Chilled: Soju is always best served cold, straight from the fridge. No ice needed in the glass!
2. The Pouring Ritual: In a group, you never pour your own drink. The youngest person typically pours for their elders. When pouring or receiving a drink, it’s customary to use two hands to show respect.
3. The Tiny Glass: Soju is drunk from small shot glasses. You don’t skull it like a shot of tequila, though. It’s meant to be sipped and enjoyed throughout the meal.
4. Say "Geonbae!": This is the Korean equivalent of "Cheers!". Clink your glasses and enjoy.

While the traditional way is fantastic, soju is also the star of some brilliantly simple soju cocktails. Try mixing it with a yogurt drink for a creamy Yakult soju, or top it up with lemonade or sprite for a simple, refreshing long drink. It's also the key ingredient in Somaek—a shot of soju dropped into a glass of beer! It’s the perfect partner for some delicious Korean food & ingredients.

Your Soju Adventure Awaits

What does soju taste like? It tastes like fun. It tastes like sharing stories with friends. It tastes like a vibrant culture in a bottle, from its clean and classic original soju to the rainbow of juicy, flavoured soju options. And with a friendly soju price point, it’s an adventure everyone can join.

Whether you're planning a Korean feast, looking for a new party drink, or just feeling curious, our collection is the perfect place to start. Why not grab a few different flavours and host your own soju tasting night?

Your new favourite soju drink is just a click away.