M4E #104: Soju Manufacturing Process
Today is time to watch a real manufacturing process. We will see in the next video how soju, a really popular korean beverage, is manufactured. Enjoy!
Time for Insights
You may not know it in the west world, but soju is one of the most consumed alcohol beverages in the world. In 2024, Jinro brand soju was listed as the top selling spirit in the world by The Spirits Business magazine, having sold 97.4 million cases the year before. The biggest export markets for this korean beverage are the US, Japan and China.
Historically, soju dates back to the 13th century, introduced to Korea during the Mongol invasions when Middle Eastern distillation techniques spread eastward. Over time, it evolved into a cultural symbol in Korea, especially associated with rituals, hospitality, and even corporate culture. Drinking soju is deeply embedded in Korean etiquette — it’s common to pour for others, especially elders or superiors, as a sign of respect, and to receive drinks with two hands.
This is an industrial process but you may want to check a more traditional one, for vinegar in this case, watching M4E #64.