Top 5 Best Soju Brands in South Korea – What you Should Order

South Korea is known for its heavy drinking culture. Korea’s most famous alcoholic beverage is Soju which is Korean rice wine. Think of it as Vodka that is watered down to half its strength. It is only made in Korea, and each region has its particular favorite. Koreans drink Soju for any special occasion or social gathering. Over 3.77 billion bottles of Soju are estimated to be sold in 2021. If you go out to drink in Korea, it will most likely involve Soju. This article will break down the best soju brands in Korea.

Many people don’t know that Soju is not only the best-selling spirit in Korea but the whole world, and it is not even close. It doubles the sales of runner-up Smirnoff vodka. This is because Korea has a very heavy drinking culture. Soju is drunk at HOFs, restaurants, and even in front of convenience stores. In addition, there are many ways to drink Soju. Mix it with Korean beer, fruit juices, and even Sprite (Cider) for the best Korean soju cocktail. Drinking Soju is a must in Korea, so it is vital to know the top brands in Korea.

The ranking itself is not easy since most provinces have their own soju brand because, back then, the Korean government didn’t want excessive competition. In the 90s, the laws were changed, and companies were allowed to sell Soju anywhere, but the effects of the bans’ effects are still felt today as many provinces still embrace the original “hometown” brands.  Our list takes into account sales, popularity, and overall taste. We also have an article on the best Korean hangover drinks for those looking to rebound after a long soju night.

Chamisul – Hite Jinro

This soju brand is the bestselling brand in Korea, so it is hard not to place this Soju as #1. Chamisul is made from sweet potatoes and other starches. It’s most popular in Seoul but is shipped out all across Korea. Chamisul is made by Hite Jinro and comes in several different types, such as the Jinro original and the Jinro fresh. It has a clean, neutral taste that goes perfectly with Korean food/Korean snacks. It does have a slightly bitter taste compared to the others on this list. Some more upscale lines from this brand go down much smoother. Whatever type of Soju you need, Jinro will have the right one for you.

Alcohol: 17-20%

Chum Churum

If you are looking for a softer soju, then try Chum Churum. Chum Churum means “like the first time.” The original Chum Churum is made from a mix of rice and grains. Korean females have taken a likely to this brand, as well as younger drinkers who are not used to drinking strong alcohol. Chum Churum has a bit more flavor to it. Lotte Liquor makes it, and a few years ago, they lowered Chum-Churum’s alcohol content from 19% to 18%. It is made of alkaline water, which makes soju more distinct. This is why when you see the commercials, you see Korean celebrities like Hyori shaking the soju.

Alcohol: 18-19%

GoodDay 

GoodDay Soju is made using natural mineral water from Jirisan Mountain. Therefore it combines natural alkaline mineral water with lower alcohol content. GoodDay Soju is popular in Korea because it has many different fruit flavors. The most popular is Grapefruit. However, they offer other fruit flavors such as pomegranate, grape, and lemon, to name a few. It is trendy at universities in Korea and is the favorite among many college students. 

Alcohol: 16.9%

C1 Blue 

The #1 brand in Busan. This Soju claims to not give hangovers due to asparagine. C1  Blue is one of the smoothest Soju’s out there. It is made by a process called SOVIA, which stands for Sound Vibration Aging Process, which is considered the best aging technique for Soju. It also uses natural bedrock water that comes from Mount Samgak, Gijang. C1 Blue is making some noise in the United States, mainly in California, Hawaii, and Washington. C1 Blue got the Grand Prix in the diluted soju category at the 2015 Korea Alcoholic Beverage Awards and the Bronze Award at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC). It has a clean aftertaste and is easy to swallow.

Alcohol: 18%

O2Linn

Also known as “Oxygen Soju,” this soju claims that more oxygen is dissolved in O2Linn than in other liquor. It emphasizes an eco-friendly way of distilling the soju. This results in a much cleaner taste and less hangover. It is very popular among females, and because of this, they came out with a spinoff product called Virginia, which has a lower alcohol content. It comes from the province of Daejeon and is a must-try!

Alcohol: 19.5%

Honorable Mentions

Myeongpoom Andong Soju

Soju does not have to be cheap. Myeongpoom Andong Soju is a bit pricy, but you get your money’s worth regarding getting drunk. It is too strong for most Koreans and has a bit of a citrus taste. This particular soju is made of wheat and rice and fermented for 15 days. It has a very silky texture and is great for sipping a meal. However, do not take shots of Andong, as you will get drunk very quickly. Myeongpoom Andong Soju is more popular outside of Korea and with the elderly. However, it is a Soju Brand that everyone should try at least once.

Alcohol: 22%- 45%