[Info] Soju Drinking Etiquette: A Guide for Foreigners
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Soju Drinking Etiquette: A Guide for Foreigners
Soju (소주) is Korea’s most famous alcoholic beverage, enjoyed in both casual and formal settings. While drinking Soju is a fun experience, **there are cultural rules and etiquette that foreigners should be aware of.** If you’re planning to enjoy Soju like a local, here’s everything you need to know!
🍶 What is Soju?
Soju is a **clear, distilled liquor** made primarily from **rice, barley, or sweet potatoes**, with an alcohol content of **16-25%**. It is often compared to vodka but has a slightly sweeter taste. Soju is commonly paired with Korean BBQ, spicy dishes, and various side dishes.
🥂 Soju Drinking Etiquette: The Basics
Korean drinking culture is deeply rooted in respect and hierarchy, especially when drinking with elders or colleagues. Here are the most important rules to follow:
1️⃣ Pouring Soju: Respect Comes First
**Never pour your own Soju** – someone else should pour for you.
Use **both hands** when pouring Soju for elders or higher-ranked individuals.
When receiving Soju, hold the glass with **two hands** (right hand holds the glass, left hand touches the right wrist).
2️⃣ How to Drink Soju Properly
When drinking with **elders or seniors**, turn your **head to the side** and cover your mouth while drinking.
Soju is usually consumed **in one shot**, but if you can’t, a polite sip is acceptable.
**Don’t refuse the first drink** if offered by a senior – it’s considered rude!
3️⃣ Refilling Soju Glasses
**Never let your friend’s glass go empty** – always refill it before it's completely empty.
Wait for someone to pour for you instead of refilling your own glass.
4️⃣ Toasting & Saying Cheers
Before drinking, say **"건배" (Geonbae)**, which means "Cheers!"
For formal situations, say **"위하여" (Wihayeo)**, meaning “For (something)!”
🍻 Fun Soju Traditions & Drinking Games
Drinking Soju isn’t just about etiquette—it’s also about having fun! Here are some popular traditions and games:
🔥 Soju Bottle Cap Flicking
Twist the cap of the Soju bottle until a small metal strip sticks out, then take turns flicking it until it breaks off. The person who flicks it off picks someone to drink!
🎲 Titanic (Submarine) Game
A shot glass is floated inside a beer glass filled with Soju and beer (Somaek). Each player adds a little Soju until the shot glass sinks. The one who sinks it drinks the whole glass!
🐸 "Noonchi Game"
Players take turns saying numbers (1-4) in order. If two people say the same number at the same time, they must drink!
🍲 Best Korean Foods to Pair with Soju
Soju pairs well with many Korean dishes! Here are some classic Soju side dishes (**안주, Anju**):
**Spicy Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki)** – A delicious street food dish
**Kimchi Pancake (Kimchi Jeon)** – A crispy, spicy pancake
**Fried Chicken (Chimaek)** – Soju’s best friend
**Raw Fish (Hwe)** – Korean-style sashimi
Final Thoughts
Drinking Soju is more than just enjoying alcohol—it’s a social experience deeply connected to Korean culture and respect. Whether you're having a casual drink with friends or attending a formal gathering, following these etiquette rules will help you enjoy Soju the Korean way!
