The Traditional Korean Soju Serving: A 50ml Shot
In Korea, soju is almost always served in small, clear shot glasses, traditionally known as soju jan. The capacity of these glasses is approximately 50 milliliters (ml). When drinking with friends, colleagues, or family, the soju is poured from a bottle into these small glasses. A standard 360ml bottle, which is the most common size, is designed to be shared and will fill around 7 to 8 of these 50ml shot glasses. This communal and respectful way of serving is a key part of the Korean drinking experience and is very different from pouring a Western-style, single-serve cocktail.
Pouring Etiquette: A Cultural Consideration
Serving soju isn't just about the volume; it's also about the cultural etiquette surrounding the pour. In Korean drinking culture, you do not pour your own glass. Instead, you pour for others at the table, particularly elders, using two hands as a sign of respect. This practice is so integral to the soju experience that it directly influences the pace and amount of consumption, often leading to a more shared and paced drinking session rather than an individual one.
Western “Standard Drink” vs. Korean Serving
When it comes to tracking alcohol intake, it's crucial to distinguish between a traditional Korean serving and a Western-defined "standard drink." The definition of a standard drink varies by country and is based on the volume of pure alcohol, not just the volume of the beverage. For instance, in the United States, a standard drink contains 14 grams of pure alcohol. Since soju's alcohol by volume (ABV) can range significantly (from as low as 12% for flavored versions to over 25% for traditional types), the number of standard drinks per soju bottle is not a fixed number.
The Impact of ABV and Bottle Size
The variability of soju's alcohol content and packaging directly affects its serving size. Modern mass-market soju typically falls between 12.5% and 17.5% ABV, while some premium or traditional varieties can be much stronger.
Consider these scenarios:
- Low-ABV Flavored Soju: A 360ml bottle of 12% ABV flavored soju contains roughly 3.6 standard drinks (US definition).
- Higher-ABV Original Soju: A 360ml bottle of 17% ABV original soju contains about 4.3 standard drinks.
This makes it clear that while a Korean serving is a small 50ml shot, the amount of pure alcohol consumed per serving varies significantly depending on the specific bottle.
Soju Serving Size Comparison
| Soju Type (Example) | Bottle Size (ml) | ABV | Korean Servings (50ml shots) | US Standard Drinks* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flavored (Chum Churum Peach) | 360 | 12-13% | ~7.2 | ~3.6 |
| Original (Chamisul Fresh) | 360 | 16-17% | ~7.2 | ~4.3 |
| Premium (Hwayo 25) | 375 | 25% | ~7.5 | ~6.7 |
| Traditional (Andong Soju) | Varies | Up to 53% | Varies | Significantly higher |
*Calculations are approximate and based on standard US definitions.
Versatility in Consumption: Shots, Sips, and Mixers
While the traditional method involves small, quick shots with food, soju's clean and neutral taste also lends itself to other consumption styles.
- Sipping: Unlike many Western spirits, soju is often savored slowly while eating, especially with Korean barbecue or stews. This approach, while less traditional for the first pour, allows drinkers to better appreciate the flavor and avoid overconsumption.
- Mixed Drinks: Soju is an excellent base for cocktails. A popular example is the somaek, a mix of soju (so) and beer (maekju). The standard 50ml soju shot can be easily incorporated into many recipes, from fruit soju drinks to more complex creations. For more inspiration, Bon Appétit offers a guide to soju and its uses in cocktails, illustrating its versatility.
How to Serve and Enjoy Soju: Best Practices
For the best soju experience, remember these key points:
- Chill It Well: Soju is best served chilled to mellow the alcohol burn and enhance its refreshing character.
- Serve With Food: Soju is traditionally enjoyed with a meal. Pair it with savory Korean dishes like barbecue, kimchi jjigae, or spicy stir-fries.
- Respectful Pouring: Always pour for others, particularly those older than you, and use two hands to show respect.
- Sip or Shoot: The first glass may be a quick shot, but it is acceptable to sip subsequent glasses.
Conclusion
Ultimately, a serving of soju is defined by context: the traditional 50ml shot in Korean culture, or a much more variable measure depending on a bottle's ABV and Western standard drink guidelines. For those new to the spirit, understanding both the cultural etiquette and the alcohol content allows for a more enjoyable and mindful drinking experience. Whether you share a chilled green bottle of soju with friends or mix a fruit cocktail, the concept of a single serving is rooted in a tradition of moderation and communal enjoyment.
