Soju is a clear and colorless distilled alcoholic beverage that originated in Korea, traditionally made from rice but now also from other grains like wheat, barley, sweet potatoes, and tapioca
. It has a flavor profile similar to vodka but is typically sweeter and smoother, with a clean and neutral taste
. The alcohol content of soju varies widely, generally ranging from about 12.5% to over 50% ABV, though most commonly it is around 15-20% in modern commercial varieties
. Soju is deeply embedded in Korean culture and is often consumed neat in small shot glasses, especially during social gatherings and celebrations
. It can also be used as a base for cocktails or mixed with beer, cider, or tonic water
. Traditional soju is distilled from fermented grains, while many mass- produced sojus today are made by diluting high-purity ethanol with water, sweeteners, and flavorings
. Compared to sake, another East Asian rice alcoholic beverage, soju is distilled (whereas sake is brewed), generally has a lower alcohol content, and tends to be sweeter with a smoother finish
. Soju is considered Korea's national drink and is the best-selling liquor by volume worldwide
. In summary, soju is a versatile Korean distilled spirit with a mild, slightly sweet flavor, enjoyed neat or in mixed drinks, with a long history and cultural significance in Korea
