Korean nightlife is a vibrant and exciting affair, known for its dynamic alcohol culture. From Seoul's bustling night markets to Busan's beachfront bars, the night lights up with lively locals and visitors enjoying traditional makgeolli, the famous beer-and-soju cocktail known as "somaek".
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The iconic soju takes center stage in Korean nightlife, whether sipped neat, mixed into cocktails, or used as a base for refreshing concoctions. It is a beloved and integral part of the Korean drinking experience.
Photo from Korean Culture and Information Service (KOCIS)
Korean nightlife offers a unique blend of communal drinking customs, innovative beverages, and lively atmospheres, creating an unforgettable experience for those who partake. The typical green bottle of soju has become a symbol of Korea's vibrant nightlife, synonymous with shared conversations and laughter.
Soju's prominence in Korean culture extends beyond its nightlife and is also reflected in the country's popular culture. The iconic green bottle of soju often features prominently in Korean dramas (K-dramas), serving as a catalyst for deep conversations, dramatic revelations, or the blossoming of new relationships. Additionally, soju is frequently referenced in K-pop lyrics and music videos, contributing to its global recognition and popularity. This widespread representation of soju in K-dramas and K-pop further cements its status as a cultural icon and highlights its central role in the social fabric of Korea.
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Soju’s cultural significance and popularity in Korea are also underscored by its advertising strategies. South Korea's top celebrities are often enlisted to endorse and market soju, making commercials for this beloved beverage a star-studded affair. These promotional campaigns featuring famous faces not only boost the visibility and appeal of soju but also associate it with a sense of glamour, prestige, and relatability. From globally recognized K-Pop idols to beloved actors and actresses, the presence of these high-profile personalities in soju commercials strengthens its iconic status and demonstrates its deeply rooted presence in Korean lifestyle and entertainment.
Soju is a clear, colorless distilled beverage originating from Korea. Its name, which made its way to the Oxford English Dictionary, highlights its global recognition and popularity. Traditionally made from rice, modern Soju often uses potatoes or tapioca as a base. This iconic drink holds a significant place in Korean culture and festivities, with its alcohol content varying anywhere between 16% to 53% by volume. The often smooth and slightly sweet taste belies its strength, making it a staple in Korea's social and dining scene.
In 2021, the volume of soju discharged from domestic manufacturers reached 825,848 kiloliters, equivalent to approximately 2.29 billion bottles of 360ml each. Considering the rapid turnover characteristic of alcoholic beverages, it's reasonable to assume that the amount discharged from manufacturers reflects the consumption volume. This signifies that on average, each adult consumed around 52.9 bottles of soju.
Photo from <경남도민일보>
Soju is often deemed as the most representative '서민 술', which translates to 'commoner's alcohol' or 'people’s liquor' in English. Its affordability, paired with its versatile flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of Korean foods, makes it a favorite among people from all walks of life in Korea. Soju's prevalence and popularity as a '서민 술' further emphasize its deep-rooted presence in Korean society, reflecting both the everyman's daily life and the nation's broader cultural landscape.
The distillation process of soju traditionally involved a method known as atmospheric distillation, utilizing a piece of apparatus known as a sot, which is a cauldron used to boil fermented grains. The vapor is then collected, cooled, and condensed to form the clear, potent spirit we know as soju. Over time, the distillation process has been modernized, with most commercial brands favoring continuous column still distillation due to its efficiency and consistency in producing large volumes.
In addition, it is a fascinating fact that the production of distilled soju was introduced to Korea during the Goryeo Dynasty, through the influence of the Mongolian army. As a result, regions such as Andong, Kaesong, and Jeju Island, which were particularly significant as Mongolian military bases, developed unique methods for producing soju.
Jusageobae (holding a drinking party) by Hyewon
The dilution formula of soju is as fascinating as its distillation. Historically, soju was not diluted and had an alcohol content as high as 40-45%. However, a nationwide shortage of rice led the government to ban the traditional distillation of soju from grains.
In 1964, Korean government introduced the , Grain Management Law(양곡관리법). This legislation was a response to the country's critical shortage of rice. Under this law, the production of soju from rice or any other grains was prohibited, compelling manufacturers to innovate new ways of producing the national drink. This led to the use of alternative starch sources such as potatoes, wheat, and tapioca.
The law had a significant impact on the soju industry, reshaping it into what we know today. Over time as the grain shortage eased, the law was relaxed, and rice-based soju has made a comeback, especially among premium brands. However, many soju manufacturers continue to use alternative starch sources due to the cost-effectiveness and the unique flavor profiles they offer.
Nowadays, it is more common for soju to be diluted. This adaptation in the dilution process has shaped the soju we drink today, a testament to Korea's resilience and innovative spirit throughout history.
Soju glasses are traditionally small, typically holding just a few ounces of the clear liquor. This is primarily due to the communal drinking culture of Korea. Soju is often shared among friends, family, or colleagues, poured from a single bottle into individual small glasses in a ritual that fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie. The small glasses become vessels of shared experiences, symbolizing the communal spirit and fostering deeper connections.
Photo from Korean Culture and Information Service (KOCIS)
Fun fact: The standard size of a bottle of soju that we enjoy is 360ml. If you fill up a soju glass with a full bottle, you'll get about 7 and a half glasses. Therefore, the capacity of a soju glass is about 50ml.
In addition to the traditional small soju glasses, there are various types that add to the charm and experience of drinking soju. Some glasses have unique designs, while others may be made from special materials. Each type of glass brings its own aesthetic and enhances the enjoyment of drinking soju. Whether it's a classic small glass or a more elaborate design, the choice of soju glass can elevate the drinking experience and make it even more memorable.
There exists another theory that attributes the small size of traditional soju glasses to the economic realities of the past. Soju was, at one point, a luxury item, its cost prohibitive for many people. The use of small glasses was a practical solution, ensuring that the precious liquid could be shared among many, enabling everyone to partake in the communal drinking ritual without depleting the bottle rapidly. This historical artifact of Korean culture contributes to the charm of the soju-drinking experience, a nod to a time when simply sharing a bottle of soju was a special occasion in itself.
If you've seen a lot of Korean dramas, you would've probably heard of the saying “소주 한 잔 하자”. This Korean phrase, which directly translates to "Let's have a shot of soju," is not just an invitation for a drink. It represents the spirit of Korean camaraderie and communal culture, embodying a moment of shared experience and the start of a bonding session.
Whether it's to celebrate, console a broken heart, or simply enjoy the company of friends, this phrase is commonly heard in many social gatherings. It encapsulates the essence of Korea's vibrant drinking culture, where soju serves as a medium to foster connections and create collective memories.
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So next time you hear this phrase, don't hesitate to join in and experience for yourself the communal spirit of soju in Korea. With its rich history and cultural significance, it's no wonder that soju holds such a special place in Korean society. From celebrations to everyday gatherings, this iconic drink brings people together and adds an extra layer of flavor to any occasion.
Seomjan
Introducing [Seomjan/Island Glass], a unique and exquisite soju glass that encapsulates the mesmerizing beauty of Jeju Island’s sea. This product is more than just a glass - it's a work of art, a symbol of Korean culture, and a testament to the communal spirit inherent in soju drinking. Seomjan is the fruit of the 'Capturing Korea’s Islands – Dokdo and Ulleungdo' project, made possible by the support of countless contributors who shared our vision.
The name '섬잔', or 'Seomjan', is a combination of two Korean words: '섬' (seom) meaning 'island' and '잔' (jan) signifying a 'glass'. It encapsulates our aim to create a product that mirrors the tranquil and breathtaking beauty of Korean islands while serving as a vessel for Korea's most beloved spirit, soju. Each Seomjan is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the systematic and aesthetic quality that is characteristic of Korean design.
This remarkable product has received numerous accolades reflecting its outstanding design and cultural significance. These include the prestigious 3rd Youth Startup League Grand Prize (Hite Jinro President Award), the 2021 ASIA DESIGN PRIZE GRAND PRIZE, the 36th DDEA Grand Prize (Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy Award), and the 2021 A’ Design Award Golden A’ Award. Such recognition underscores the aesthetic appeal of Seomjan and its role in promoting the beauty of Korean culture both domestically and internationally.
Pouring soju into a Seomjan is more than just filling a glass. It's a ritual, an invitation to share in the spirit of togetherness that underscores every Korean social gathering. The gentle curve of the glass, the weight in your hand, the clarity of the material - each aspect of Seomjan enhances the soju-drinking experience, adding a touch of elegance and tradition. Embrace the spirit of Korea, one soju-filled Seomjan at a time.
Experience the true essence of Korean culture and the spirit of togetherness with a simple phrase: "소주 한 잔 하자" - Let's have a shot of soju. As you raise your glass, let it be a Seomjan, capturing the mesmerizing beauty of Jeju Island's sea. This unique and exquisite soju glass is more than just a vessel; it's a work of art, symbolizing Korean camaraderie and the communal spirit inherent in soju drinking. With meticulous craftsmanship and numerous accolades, Seomjan stands as a testament to the beauty of Korean culture.
So, join in, embrace the spirit of Korea, and create unforgettable memories, one soju-filled Seomjan at a time.