5 KOREAN ALCOHOLIC DRINKS KOREANS CAN'T IMAGINE LIVING WITHOUT

Koreans are thirsty souls. South Korea is the leading country in consumption of hard liquor over 20% among OECD countries. It is no surprise that “Let’s drink together later!” is also one way to say goodbye in Korea. Let’s take a look at some useful (or may not) and interesting info on it. 

1. Soju

Sold by 360ml bottles at 1,400 KRW in a mart or 4,000 KRW in a restaurant, Soju is the king of Korean booze. Although soju falls under “hard liquor’ with 15.5~25% ABV, Korean men love their spirits filled in the green bottles. They, on average, drink 150 bottles a year, which is a bottle every other day (Holy crow!). There are different Soju brands, but it is impossible for you to tell the differences.

Soju shot 

In Korea, there is a special shot for Soju, quite similar to a whisky shot. Since one bottle of Soju fills 7.5 shots, so last shot is only half filled. Rumor has it that its' Soju companies' sales gimmick to induce people to order another bottle. 

What makes a good combination with Soju

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Some say there is nothing that doesn't go well with Soju. I guess it’s because Soju is so blend that anything can be delicious after a shot of Soju. Many people pick Korean barbecue for the best Soju’s partner. 

2. Beer

Honestly, Korean beers are no match for globally famous ones. Although, recently, some efforts are made by Korean brew-houses to improve the quality, I  still wouldn't recommend trying Korean beer unless you are in adventure of untasty beers. In 2012, According to <The Economist>, Korean beers are worse than Daedonggang beer of North Korea. End of discussion.

3. Somaek

Technically it’s just a mixture of Soju and beer. But since Koreans love so much, it deserves to be mentioned separately. The mixing ratio totally depends on personal preference, but generally people first pour a half shot of Soju in a beer glass and add beer until it reaches the logo on the cup. Koreans love Somaek for it's not as strong as Soju and not as sparkly as beer.

4. Makgeolli (Korean Rice Wine)

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Although it has only 6% ABV, it gives you a terrible hangover next morning. Even a gentle shake is enough to explode the bottle, you need to pay special attention when opening the bottle. It is customary in Korea to enjoy Makgeolli with Pajeon (green onion pancake) on rainy days.

5. Traditional Liquor

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You can easily find traditional liquor such as Bokbunjaju (Korean raspberry wine) and Maesilju (Korean plum wine) in any convenience stores. In case you wanna go for more luxurious options, Andong soju, Kyodongbeobju, Hansan Sogokju, and Moonbaeju are the ones you should try. 

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3. 6 TOURIST SPOTS IN JEJU ISLAND THAT WOULD HEAL WEARY SOULS / BY KARLY

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Written by Gibbon

Born in Korea, he grew up in Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia. This young self-appointed ascetic abandoned his university and is currently on his spiritual journey in search of true meaning of life roving from mountains to mountains. His weather-torn and hair-covered appearance reminds of some mystical Bigfoot and he looks 20 years older than he is.