A quick guide to Korean soju by region

I’ve been learning everyday Korean words,
and today’s topic… is SOJU! 🍶💚

Korea has so many regional soju brands,
and each one has its own vibe 👇

1) 처음처럼 (cheoeum-cheoreom)

지역 / Region: 서울·강원 (Seoul / Gangwon)
도수 / ABV: 16.5%
Flavor profile:

Very smooth & mild

Light alcohol bite

Easy beginner-friendly soju

2) 참이슬 (chamiseul)

지역 / Region: 서울·경기 (Seoul / Gyeonggi Province)
도수 / ABV: 16.5% (Fresh), 20.1% (Original)
Flavor profile:

Korea’s most “standard” clean soju

Crisp finish, almost no sweetness

Balanced and refreshing

3) 한라산 (hanrasan)

지역 / Region: 제주 (Jeju)
도수 / ABV: 17% (Blue), 21% (Original)
Flavor profile:

Made with Jeju volcanic rock water

Mineral-rich and refreshingly crisp

Slightly bold yet clean

4) 좋은데이 (joheundei)

지역 / Region: 부산·경남 (Busan / South Gyeongsang)
도수 / ABV: 16.9%
Flavor profile:

Light, slightly sweet, very smooth

Easy-drinking and friendly flavor

Popular for fruit-flavored soju

5) 잎새주 (ipsaeju)

지역 / Region: 전남 (South Jeolla / Jeonnam)
도수 / ABV: 16.9%
Flavor profile:

Fresh aroma with gentle sweetness

Soft start, dry finish

Pairs great with seafood

6) 맛있는 참 (masissneun cham)

지역 / Region: 울산·경남 (Ulsan / South Gyeongsang)
도수 / ABV: 16.5%
Flavor profile:

Clean with a touch of sweetness

Softer than Chamisul, less sweet than Good Day

Balanced “middle-style” soju

7) 대선 (daeseon)

지역 / Region: 부산 (Busan)
도수 / ABV: 16.7%
Flavor profile:

Refreshing, almost sparkling-water vibe

Light, crisp, modern flavor

Very popular in Busan

Is there any Korean soju you’re curious about?
Or is there a Korean drink you’d like me to recommend?