I know what you’re thinking.
Shaking beverages like sikhye or makgeolli, which have sediment that needs to be mixed, makes sense.
But soju is clear and has nothing inside to mix, so why do Koreans shake soju bottles?
Here’s why!
Quick Summary
- Koreans shake soju bottles to create a swirl, tap the bottom with their elbow, and then form a V-shape with their fingers to flick off the top.
- Soju bottles used to be sealed with corks in the 50s. Koreans wanted to open bottles easily and remove cork debris by shaking it.
- When the soju brand Chum-Churum was launched, it came with the slogan that shaking the bottle would make it taste better.
- There’s also a rumor that soju had to be shaken to mix in saccharin, a sweetener that was once used in soju.
- But mostly, shaking a soju bottle is simply about having fun and setting the mood for a drinking session.
1. The Cork from the 1950s
Back in the 1950s, soju bottles were sealed with corks, much like wine bottles.
Opening these bottles required effort, so people would turn the bottle upside down and shake it.
This allowed the cork to absorb some liquid and soften, making it easier to open.
They also tapped the bottom with their elbows.
Additionally, cork particles often got into soju, so people would shake the bottle, tap the neck, and pour out a small amount to remove cork debris.
This ritual evolved into the bottle-tapping and shaking ritual we see today.
2. “Chum Churum” Marketing
When the soju brand Chum-Churum was first launched, their slogan said that shaking the bottle would make it taste better.
According to the brand’s explanation, their soju, made with alkaline water, becomes smoother when shaken because the alcohol seeps more evenly between the water molecules.
This marketing message likely influenced the habit of shaking soju bottles.
3. The Saccharin Myth
There’s also a rumor that soju had to be shaken to mix it with saccharin, a sweetener that was once used in soju.
While this isn’t true for modern soju, the myth may have contributed to the continued practice of shaking the bottle.
4. Just for Fun
Shaking a soju bottle is all about having fun and setting the tone for a lively drinking session.
It serves as a signal that the party is officially starting, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation.
The act itself gives off the impression that the person shaking the bottle is well-versed in Korean drinking culture, making them look like they truly know how to enjoy the moment.
Many Koreans perform this ritual before pouring drinks, especially in social gatherings, as a way to entertain friends and add a playful touch to the experience.
And when everyone around is shaking their bottle, it just feels natural to join in!
5. The “Whirlpool Effect” for a Smoother Pour
Another reason Koreans shake their soju bottles is to create a small whirlpool inside the bottle.
When a soju bottle is shaken vigorously, a swirling motion called the “whirlpool effect” forms inside. This effect is often seen as a way to awaken the soju, making it feel fresher before drinking.
While some claim this improves the texture of the drink, the real reason might be psychological.
The whirlpool effect adds a sense of ritual to drinking soju, and makes the night feel more special.
The swirling motion can help mix any settled particles in traditional soju varieties that may not have been filtered as thoroughly as modern brands.
Also, this swirling motion is just visually appealing.
Shaking soju bottles has evolved from practical origins to a fun ritual.
Whether it’s out of habit, for taste, or just to get the party started, it continues to bring energy to Korean drinking tables.
