A Guide to Buying Soju in Germany

Korean culture, from K-dramas to its diverse cuisine, is steadily gaining popularity in Germany. With this comes a growing interest in authentic Korean beverages. If you're planning a Korean-themed evening or are simply curious about new flavour experiences, you often face the question: Where can you reliably buy soju online, and which variety is the right one for you?

This guide is here to help. It introduces different types of Korean alcoholic drinks and provides practical tips to make your selection easier. The goal is to give you the necessary information to make an informed decision.

What to Look for When Buying Korean Spirits?

The world of Korean spirits is more diverse than it first appears. To find the right product for your taste and occasion, some basic knowledge is helpful.

1. Soju vs. Makgeolli – Understanding the Differences

Soju and makgeolli are often used interchangeably, but they are two fundamentally different drinks.

• Soju: This is the most famous Korean spirit. It's a clear, distilled beverage traditionally made from rice, but now often produced from sweet potatoes or tapioca. The alcohol content typically ranges from 13% to 20% ABV. Jinro Soju is one of the world's leading brands in this category.
• Makgeolli: This is an unfiltered, milky-white Korean rice wine. It is lightly sparkling, has a creamy texture, and a sweet-and-sour taste. With an alcohol content of about 6–8% ABV, it is significantly milder than soju. Those looking to buy makgeolli are seeking a traditional, fermented beverage.

2. Classic or Flavoured? The Variety of Soju Tastes

Not all soju is the same. The choice between a classic and a flavoured variety depends heavily on personal preference and the intended use.

• Classic Soju: Varieties like Chamisul Fresh offer a very pure and neutral flavour profile. They are excellent for enjoying neat with Korean dishes or as a base for cocktails, similar to vodka.
• Flavoured Soju: Options like Strawberry Soju, peach, or grape are especially popular with beginners. They are sweeter, and the taste of alcohol is less pronounced. These are best served well-chilled as a standalone drink.

3. Alcohol Content and Occasion

The alcohol content is a crucial factor. A mild makgeolli with 6% ABV is a great match for a light lunch or as a refreshing afternoon drink. In contrast, a classic soju with over 16% ABV is a typical companion for a hearty Korean BBQ in the evening. Flavoured sojus with around 13% ABV are a popular choice for social gatherings and parties.

Recommended Korean Drinks

Based on objective product characteristics, we have compiled a selection of Korean drinks that cover a broad spectrum of tastes.

WOORISOOL Makgeolli Chestnut 6% ALC.-750ml

What sets it apart: This makgeolli from WOORISOOL combines the traditional taste of fermented rice wine with the warm, nutty aroma of chestnuts. Its creamy texture and mild alcohol content make it an accessible and unique drink. According to the manufacturer, the product contains 0.1% chestnut and chestnut extract.

Advantages:

• Mild alcohol content of 6% ABV
• Unique flavour combination of rice wine and chestnut
• Large 750ml bottle, ideal for sharing
• Lightly sparkling and refreshing when served chilled

Best for: Those looking for an alternative to conventional beer or wine and who are curious about traditional Korean rice wine with a modern twist. Ideal for lovers of creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty flavours.

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Jinro Chamisul Soju Fresh 16.5% alc. 360ml

What sets it apart:Chamisul Fresh is a flagship product of the Jinro brand, known for its exceptionally pure and clean soju taste. It gets its smooth profile from a special filtration process using bamboo charcoal. With an alcohol content of 16.5% ABV, it is slightly lighter than traditional varieties but stronger than flavoured sojus.

Advantages:

• Clear and pure flavour profile
• Versatile: enjoy neat, on the rocks, or as a cocktail base
• Low sugar content (1.19 g per 100 ml according to nutritional information)
• Represents the modern, popular soju style in Korea

Best for: Anyone who wants to experience the authentic, unadulterated taste of soju. It is also an excellent choice for those looking for a neutral spirit for mixing cocktails.

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Jinro Chamisul Soju Strawberry 13% alc. 360ml

What sets it apart: This variety from Jinro combines the smooth character of Chamisul Soju with the sweet and fruity aroma of strawberries. The Strawberry Soju is part of the trend towards flavoured spirits and offers an easily approachable taste experience with a moderate alcohol content of 13% ABV.

Advantages:

• Distinct and pleasant strawberry aroma
• Lower alcohol content, ideal for beginners
• Best enjoyed well-chilled and neat
• No need for additional mixers

Best for: Ideal for those who prefer sweet, fruity alcoholic beverages. A popular choice for parties and social gatherings, especially among a younger audience and those who are less fond of the harsh taste of straight spirits.

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Looking for More Options?

The products featured here offer a great introduction to the variety of Korean drinks. However, if you are looking for other flavours, different brands, or entirely different types of spirits, it's worth taking a look at our broader selection.

Discover more international specialities and find the perfect drink for any occasion in our Beer, Wine & Spirits category.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Soju

How do you drink soju correctly?

Traditionally, soju is served well-chilled and drunk neat from small, special soju glasses. It is a social drink, often enjoyed in company and with food, especially with grilled meats or spicy stews. It is customary to refill each other's glasses, but not your own.

What is the difference between soju and sake?

Although both are often referred to as "rice wine," there are key differences. Soju is a Korean distilled spirit that can be made from various starchy ingredients. Sake is a Japanese brewed beverage made exclusively from rice, water, yeast, and koji. Sake generally has a similar or slightly lower alcohol content than soju but has a completely different production process and taste.

Can you mix cocktails with soju?

Yes, neutral soju varieties like Chamisul Fresh are an excellent base for cocktails. A popular and simple mix is the "Somaek," a combination of soju and beer (maekju). Flavoured sojus can be mixed well with soda water, lemonade, or other carbonated drinks to create a refreshing long drink.