Soju Cocktails: Easy & Inspiring Recipes to Mix at Home

Light, smooth, and endlessly versatile, soju is a beloved Korean distilled liquor that’s quickly making waves in the cocktail world. With its mild flavor and lower ABV, it blends effortlessly into a variety of drinks, from crisp highballs to fruit-forward spritzers. Once a staple of Korean drinking culture, soju cocktails are now gaining global popularity, popping up in trendy bars and at-home mixology sessions alike. Ready to shake things up? Let’s explore the best soju cocktails to mix and enjoy at home.

What is soju and why is it so popular?

Soju is a clear, distilled liquor that originated in Korea and has gained immense popularity worldwide. 

It is typically made from fermented grains such as rice, wheat, or barley, though modern variations may include other ingredients like sweet potatoes or tapioca. Known for its smooth and clean taste, it has an alcohol content ranging from 16% to 45%, making it a versatile base for a wide array of cocktails.  

In fact, one of the important reasons behind soju’s immense popularity is its ability to blend seamlessly with various tastes, allowing mixologists and DIY enthusiasts to create innovative and enticing cocktails. It has a neutral profile that serves as a perfect canvas for incorporating fruits, herbs, and other exciting ingredients, resulting in unique mixed drinks.  

Pro tip! If you plan on serving soju cocktails at a party, but want to be prepared to offer less-adventurous clinkers an alternative base liquor, keep a bottle of SKYY Vodka handy. Vodka and soju both have a clear, well-balanced flavor, so it is easy to swap one for the other. You could also push out the boat by offering a flavored vodka like SKYY Infusions Blood Orange if you want to lean into a more zesty vibe.

The social aspect of soju also plays a significant role in its popularity. In Korean culture, Soju is often enjoyed with friends and family, creating a social atmosphere and fostering connections. The tradition of “pouring for others” adds a communal and interactive element to the drinking experience, making the liquor an integral part of gatherings and celebrations. 

Essential ingredients for soju cocktails

Wondering what to mix with soju? The good news is that its smooth, mild profile makes it an incredibly adaptable base for all sorts of sensational sips. While classic plain soju is always a solid choice, flavored soju, like grapefruit or peach, adds an extra dimension to fruit-forward drinks. For a richer texture, Yakult or coconut milk can bring a creamy contrast, while green tea or herbal infusions offer a more delicate, earthy balance.

When it comes to flavor pairings, soju shines alongside citrus fruits like lemon, lime, and orange, which brighten up its subtle character. Tropical ingredients such as mango, pineapple, and watermelon add a lush, sun-kissed sweetness, while fresh berries (especially strawberry and raspberry) enhance its natural crispness. If you prefer a more sophisticated twist, soju also blends wonderfully with floral and herbal elements like mint, cucumber, and green tea.

For serving, the right glassware and garnishes can elevate any soju cocktail. Highballs and Collins glasses are great for long, fizzy drinks, while coupes and martini glasses suit elegant, stirred creations. Mules, served in copper mugs, bring an extra chill factor, and traditional shot glasses are essential for Korean-style soju bombs.

Garnish options range from lime wedges and citrus twists to fresh herbs, fruit slices, and even fun elements like popsicles for a playful, eye-catching finish.

Also see: The Best Shochu Cocktails & Guide to the Famous Japanese Spirit

1. Mango Melona Soju Cocktail

Many popular cocktails with soju tend to lean into the tropical end of the flavor spectrum, and we love it. For those of you who don’t know, a melon bar is a creamy fruit-flavored Korean popsicle. To make this morish mango cocktail, mix equal parts mango soju and fizzy lemonade in a glass with ice. Then take the Melona bar out of the freezer, remove the wrapping, and gently stir the ice pop into the drink. Tasty, fun, and something completely different for your summer pool parties.  

More mango magic! 8 Deliciously Fresh Mango Cocktails You Must Try 

2. Strawberry Soju Cocktail

This Strawberry Soju cocktail is as easy to sip as it is to prepare. Blend 1 cup of fresh strawberries, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 cup of simple syrup, and 1/4 cup of soju with ice until smooth. Share between two glasses and garnish with a strawberry slice.  

TOP TIP: We love pairing strawberry cocktails with summery eats like Korean BBQ.  

3. Soju Mojito

Of course, soju cocktail recipes can also be tailored to be lean and green, like the always-classy Mojito. Muddle 6-8 fresh mint leaves, 1 oz of sugar, and the juice of 1 lime in a glass. Add ice, 2 oz of soju, and a splash of soda water. Stir gently, and garnish with a mint sprig and lime wedge. 

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4. Korean Iced Green Tea with Soju

Sticking with the green theme, you’ve got to try Korean Iced Green Tea with Soju. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool. Fill a glass with ice, then pour 1 oz of green tea and 1 oz of soju over the ice. Stir gently, and garnish with a lemon slice (optional).  

This easy cocktail is a captivating fusion of cool green tea and smooth soju, resulting in a harmonious blend of earthy and crisp flavors complemented by a subtle touch of citrus when garnished with a lemon slice. 

Tea-riffic! Easy Tea Cocktails for Chilled Celebrations 

5. Soju Caipirinha

The classic Caipirinha has been a staple on cocktail menus around the globe for ages. To make the Korean-inspired version, muddle 2 lime wedges and 2 teaspoons of sugar in a glass. Fill the glass with ice and add 2 oz of soju. Stir gently, and garnish with a lime wedge. 

Read next: Asian Cocktail Ingredients to Inspire Your Next Drink

6. Soju Cosmo

Naturally, we had to give the classy Cosmo the soju treatment as well. In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz of soju, 1 oz of cranberry juice, 1/2 oz of lime juice, and 1/2 oz of Grand Marnier. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a lime twist or a cranberry skewer. It’s tangy, zesty, rich, and invigorating all at once! 

7. Yogurt Soju Cocktail

The Yogurt Soju cocktail, also known as a Soju Yakult cocktail, combines the kick of soju with Yakult, a creamy yogurt drink that many Koreans enjoyed as kids. To make a Yogurt Soju drink, fill a glass with ice and pour 2 oz of soju over it. Top it up with 4 oz of Yakult, and add a splash of lemon-lime soda like Sprite. Stir it gently and garnish with a lemon slice. 

Love all things fermented? Fermented Cocktails: Why They’re Growing in Popularity 

8. Subak Soju (Watermelon Soju)

A watermelon-based cocktail is a thing of beauty on a hot summer day. To make Subak Soju, cut a watermelon into cubes and remove the seeds. Blend the watermelon until smooth. In a glass, add 2 oz of soju and pour the blended watermelon over it. Stir gently, and garnish with a watermelon slice. 

Learn more: 30 Seasonal Cocktails to Make the Most of Fruit and Vegetables

9. Soju Sunrise

If you love the sweet zest of an Italian Sunrise or Tequila Sunrise, you’re going to adore a Soju Sunrise. Fill a glass with ice and add 2 oz of soju. Slowly pour in 4 oz of orange juice, allowing it to settle at the bottom. Gently pour 1 oz of grenadine syrup over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. Garnish with an orange slice. 

10. Raspberry Soju

Following in the slipstream of dainty drinks like the Raspberry Martini, the Raspberry Soju provides a beautiful way to showcase the tender taste of this picture-perfect fruit. In a glass, muddle a few fresh raspberries with 1/2 oz of simple syrup. Add ice and 2 oz of soju. Stir gently, and garnish with a few more raspberries. 

Learn more: Navigating the Rich Tapestry of Korean Drinking Culture

11. Soju Lemonade

Love a Lemon Drop Martini? Then this is the soju cocktail for you. In a glass, combine 2 oz of soju, 1 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 oz of simple syrup. Add ice and stir well. Garnish with a lemon slice. Easy as Sunday morning! 

12. Poktanju (Soju Bomb)

This drink is a complete Korean pub classic. Fill a glass halfway with chilled beer. Place two chopsticks across the top of the glass. Pour the soju into a shot glass and carefully balance it on top of the chopsticks. Now slam your hands on the table on either side of the beer glass and watch the shot of soju drop into your drink. Enjoy!  

Read next: 10 Beer Cocktails for the Win 

13. Soju Martini

Let’s venture off the beaten path to put an East Asian spin on the 007 classics. In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz of soju, 1 oz of Cinzano Vermouth Bianco, and a dash of orange bitters. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or an olive. 

More Martinis! 22 Types of Martinis You Should Know 

14. Pineapple Soju

Totally tropical? Yes, please! In a blender, combine 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks, 2 oz of soju, 1 oz of coconut milk, and a handful of ice. Blend until smooth and pour into a glass. Garnish with a pineapple wedge. You can also use this recipe to make a lychee soju cocktail or a peach soju cocktail – simply switch out the fruit.  

Island-style! 15 Totally Tropical Pineapple Juice Cocktails 

15. Cucumber-Soju Coolers

If a Cucumber Martini hits all the right notes, it’s time to whip up a Cucumber-Soju Cooler, bestie. In a shaker, muddle a few cucumber slices with 1 oz of simple syrup. Add ice, 2 oz of soju, and the juice of 1/2 a lime. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cucumber slice. 

16. The Seoul Mule

Mule cocktails are having a moment, and the East Asian version is giving major zesty energy. In a copper mug filled with ice, add 2 oz of soju, 1/2 oz of lime juice, and 4 oz of ginger beer. Stir gently, and garnish with a lime wheel. Completely delicious! 

17. Soju Royal Hawaiian

Imagine the Blue Hawaiian, but with a touch of regal swagger. This is the Soju Royal Hawaiian. In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz of soju, 1 oz of pineapple juice, 1/2 oz of orange juice, and 1/2 oz of coconut cream. Shake well and strain into a glass. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry. 

18. Soju Sour

You’ve gotta love a silky, frothy, sour cocktail! In a shaker, combine 2 oz of soju, 1 oz of lemon juice, 3/4 oz of simple syrup, and 1 egg white (optional). Shake vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg white. Add ice and shake again. Strain into a glass, and garnish with a lemon slice. 

19. Soju Citrus Cocktail

Keen to clink a drink that tastes like a walk in an orange orchard first thing in the dew-dappled morning? Pour a Soju Citrus! In a glass, combine 2 oz of soju, 1 oz of orange juice, 1 oz of grapefruit juice, and 1/2 oz of lemon juice. Add ice and stir gently. Garnish with a citrus slice. 

Learn more: Amp Up the Acidity by Adding Citric Acids to Your Cocktails 

20. Soju Jello Shot

Jello shots are a universal party starter. Dissolve 1 package of flavored jello mix (like strawberry or lime) in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir in 1 cup of soju. Pour the mixture into small shot cups and refrigerate until set. Bottoms up! 

21. Apple Soju Cocktail

If you love a crisp apple cocktail, this Apple Soju Cocktail will be right up your alley. To make one, mix 2 oz soju, and 2 oz clear apple juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Strain it into a Martini glass, top off with 2 oz club soda, and enjoy. We love pairing this drink with some sweet-and-sour pork noodles.

Read next: 11 Fruity Martini Recipes to Add Some Color to Your Next Party

22. Grapefruit & Blood Orange Soju Cocktail

Why yes, flavored soju is a thing. We love grapefruit soju, and this easy sipper is the perfect way to enjoy it on a hot day. To make a Grapefruit & Blood Orange Soju Cocktail add 1.5 oz grapefruit soju and 2 oz pulp-free blood orange juice to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to combine, decant into a coupe glass, top it off with a splash of your favorite tonic water, and enjoy.

Also see: 12 Easy Grapefruit Cocktails Recipe to Try

23. Cojinganmek

Another popular way to drink soju in Korea is the pub classic called Cojinganmek. This is a layered drink, with two shot glasses inside of a beer mug. To make one, start by placing one shot glass in a beer mug and filling it halfway with cola. Then place the second shot glass inside of the first and fill completely with soju. Finally, fill the mug to the top with your choice of beer.

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24. Soju & Tonic

If you love a classic Gin & Tonic, you need to try a simple-yet-amazing Soju & Tonic. To make one of these popular Korean cocktails, combine 2 oz soju and 4 oz tonic water in a tall glass over plenty of ice. Garnish with some lemon or lime slices, and enjoy.

Tips for making the best soju cocktails

Soju’s light, smooth profile makes it ideal for mixing, but achieving the perfect balance can elevate your cocktails to new heights. Here’s how to fine-tune the flavors for the perfect sip:

Too sweet? Add a splash of freshly squeezed lime or grapefruit juice to cut through the sweetness. A few dashes of bitters—like orange or aromatic—can also tone things down without making the drink too tart.

Too flat? A splash of club soda or tonic can liven things up with a bit of effervescence. If the flavors feel muted, a pinch of sea salt or a citrus zest garnish can help sharpen the drink’s profile.

Need a little body? A drizzle of honey, Yakult, or coconut milk can add richness, while muddled berries or melon bring texture and depth. If you want a silkier mouthfeel, shake the cocktail well to incorporate air and create a smoother sip.

Serving suggestions and food pairings

Soju cocktails make an excellent companion for various tasty dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a bright, fruity cocktail or a creamy, indulgent mix, here’s how to pair it perfectly:

Appetizers. Soju cocktails pair very well with Korean fried chicken, tempura, and crispy spring rolls; the light flavors cut through rich, crunchy textures. For a more delicate start, fresh sushi, sashimi, or summer rolls bring out soju’s subtle smoothness.

Mains. Bold, flavorful mains like Korean BBQ, grilled seafood, and spicy noodle dishes match well with fruity or citrus-based soju cocktails, balancing heat with sweetness. If you prefer something heartier, try pairing creamy soju drinks with ramen or bibimbap, where the richness plays well against umami flavors.

Desserts. For a sweet finish, fruity soju cocktails shine alongside mochi, fruit tarts, or shaved ice desserts like bingsu. Creamier, yogurt-based soju mixed drinks can be served with cheesecake, panna cotta, or coconut-based treats, for a smooth, indulgent contrast.

There you have it – 24 amazing soju cocktails to try at home. Which one will you try first? Remember to tag us when you share pictures of your DIY cocktails on Instagram, and sign up for our newsletter to get the freshest drinkspiration delivered straight to your inbox. In the meantime, visit the Campari and Aperol websites for some more far-flung cocktail inspo.