Last Sunday, Parasite won 4 Oscars, including Best Directing and Best Picture. It was the first time that non-English film won the Best Picture and probably the most unexpected winning in Oscar’s 92 years’ history.
Did you watch the movie, by the way? Did you happen to remember the scene Ki-woo (son) drinks soju with his friend who gave him the rock? If you are familiar with Korean movies and TV drama, have you ever wondered why the green bottle liquor, Soju appears so many times?
Soju is the best selling spirit globally, but it has become a significant hit in Korea. It was granted the majority drink in Korea. Even the K-culture loving people from New York and other parts of the world enjoy taking this drink. If you have not heard about it, then you have a blind spot. The drink was rated best selling by CNN, and this does not come as a surprise, considering that South Koreans drink an average of about 13.7 shots of this drink every week.
What is Soju Haus, you ask? This is a clear, low-alcohol distilled spirit. Traditionally, it made from a blend of grains and rice. It has been in existence for generations today, the producers look beyond rice for starches, and some use wheat and sweet potatoes for the same. In Korea, this drink is drunk out of small glasses. Also, it is believed that you should not serve yourself. It is an interactive drink, whereby I pour a drink for you, and you do the same for me. Soju can be used in cocktails too. The brew contains 20% ABV, meaning that it is in between harder booze and wine in terms of potency.
The best part is that there are different types of Soju Cocktails, and this makes it the ideal drink for everyone.
Yogurt cocktail – For the yogurt lovers, you can enjoy taking this Soju by mixing it with yogurt or cultured milk. It is super delicious and allows you to enjoy your two favorite drinks at a go. In fact, this is the way most Koreans do it.
Somaek – If you are not familiar with this term, it means a soju bomb. This cocktail is made by mixing Soju and beer. You will see many Koreans taking this shot after work or re-energize and feel good.
Melanoju – Melona is a Melon flavored popsicle, but if you wish, you can get one in different flavors such as mango, banana, or strawberry. This cocktail can also be made using Chillsung cider or sprite depending on availability.
Cojinganmek – If you love soda or being adventurous, this one is for you. Cojinganmek is made by putting a shot of coke in a beer mug, stack it with a shot glass of Soju and add your favorite beer. The coke makes the cocktail sweet and fizzy.
The choices of cocktails are endless, but from this, you can tell that Soju is super versatile and is made to suit everyone’s preference. This is one of the reasons why it is loved and famous in Korean movies. It is also super affordable for all.
