The familiar clear Korean spirit brings strength and a clean edge to the mix.
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K-CULTURE · SOMAEK
Somaek: Soju + Beer, Korean Style
A simple mix with a big social personality — discover what Somaek means and why it appears so often at Korean gatherings.
소주
SOJU
+
맥주
MAEKJU · BEER
=
소맥
SOMAEK
WHAT IS SOMAEK?
The name itself tells you the recipe.
“Somaek” combines the first syllable of soju (소주) with the first syllable of maekju (맥주), the Korean word for beer.
Beer adds bubbles, body and a refreshing finish.
A Korean mixed drink that is closely associated with shared meals, casual gatherings and company dinners.
WHY SOMAEK?
It is less about a strict recipe and more about the shared moment.
Somaek is easy to customize, easy to share and naturally fits the lively rhythm of a Korean table.
Easy to Customize
Some people prefer more beer, while others like a stronger soju character. There is no single official ratio everyone must follow.
Made for Sharing
Somaek is commonly mixed at a shared table, where pouring and toasting become part of the conversation.
A Social Ritual
At casual gatherings or company dinners, making a Somaek can become a small group ritual before everyone raises a glass.
Food-Friendly
The beer’s carbonation and soju’s clean character can feel refreshing alongside rich, savory or spicy Korean dishes.
MIXING SOMAEK
There is no single “correct” golden ratio.
People adjust the balance to taste. Think of the three styles below as a simple way to understand the spectrum — not fixed rules.
Lighter
More beer, less soju. Crisp, bubbly and easiergoing.
Balanced
A middle-ground mix where both beer and soju are easy to notice.
Stronger
More soju character, with beer still adding carbonation and body.
A SIMPLE WAY TO MAKE IT
Beer first, then add soju to your preferred strength.
Pour beer into a glass, add a smaller amount of soju, then let the two mix naturally or stir gently. The exact balance is a matter of personal taste.
🍺+소주=소맥
WORDS & MOMENTS
A few Korean expressions make the experience more fun.
The shortened name for the soju + beer mix.
Raise your glass together before taking a sip.
A casual sound people often say when glasses meet.
A casual invitation to share a drink and conversation.
ENJOY THE CULTURE, NOT THE QUANTITY
Somaek is presented here as part of Korean social culture. Alcohol is only for adults of legal drinking age, and the safest choice is always to drink responsibly or not drink at all.
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