Introduction
Yogurt soju (요구르트 소주) is a sweet, creamy Korean cocktail made by mixing soju with a small bottle of drinkable yogurt and a splash of lemon-lime soda. It is a favorite at Korean pubs and house parties because it hides the sharp edge of soju and tastes like a fizzy yogurt drink. If you are new to soju itself, start with our soju guide. This drink is for adults of legal drinking age – please enjoy it responsibly.
Yogurt Soju at a Glance
What it is
- A Korean soju cocktail made with drinkable yogurt and soda
Main ingredients
- Soju, small probiotic yogurt drinks, lemon-lime soda (Korean “cider”), ice
Taste
- Sweet, tangy and creamy with light fizz – the alcohol is barely noticeable
Main uses
- Party pitchers, Korean pub nights, pairing with fried chicken and spicy food
What is Yogurt Soju Made Of?
The base is a clear, neutral Korean soju. The “yogurt” is the small, sweet fermented milk drinks sold in multipacks at Asian markets and many supermarkets. Lemon-lime soda (called saida or “cider” in Korea) adds sweetness and bubbles. Popular versions:
- Classic yogurt soju: soju, yogurt drink and soda – the recipe below.
- Fruit yogurt soju: made with flavored soju (peach, grape, green grape or strawberry).
- Lighter version: more soda or sparkling water and less soju for a lower-alcohol drink.
What Does Yogurt Soju Taste Like?
It tastes like a sparkling, sweet-sour yogurt smoothie with a clean finish. Because the yogurt drink and soda cover the alcohol so well, it is easy to drink too fast – keep track of how much soju goes into each glass.
Popular Korean Foods to Pair with Yogurt Soju
Korean Fried Chicken
The creamy sweetness is a great match for sticky yangnyeom chicken.
Tteokbokki
Yogurt soju cools the mouth after spicy rice cakes.
Soya Bokkeum
Sweet sausage stir-fry is a classic Korean pub snack with soju cocktails.
Pajeon
Crispy savory pancakes balance the drink’s sweetness.
Easy Yogurt Soju Recipe (Serves 4)
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (360 ml) soju, chilled
- 3 small bottles (about 65 ml each) drinkable probiotic yogurt
- 1 can (355 ml) lemon-lime soda, chilled
- Ice
- Lemon slices, to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a pitcher halfway with ice.
- Pour in the soju and the yogurt drinks and stir well.
- Slowly add the soda and stir gently so it keeps its fizz.
- Taste and adjust: more yogurt for sweetness, more soda for a lighter drink.
- Pour into small glasses with ice and a lemon slice.
Tip: For a non-alcoholic version everyone can enjoy, replace the soju with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon.
Where to Buy Yogurt Soju Ingredients
United States
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Amazon
Search soju glasses on Amazon
Search Korean drinks on Amazon
H-Mart
Search yogurt drinks on H-Mart
Search soju on H-Mart
Soju itself is sold at liquor stores and Korean markets with a liquor license; availability depends on local laws.
Canada
Search soju glasses on Amazon.ca
Europe
How to Store Yogurt Soju
Yogurt soju is best mixed fresh and served right away, because the soda goes flat and the yogurt can separate. Unopened soju keeps for a long time in a cool, dark place; yogurt drinks must stay refrigerated and be used by their date. If you have leftovers, cover and refrigerate for a few hours at most, then stir before serving.
Yogurt Soju FAQ
How strong is yogurt soju?
Most soju is around 13–20% alcohol. Mixed this way, the drink is much lighter – roughly similar to a strong beer or a light wine – but it goes down easily, so drink slowly.
Can I use regular yogurt?
Thick spoon yogurt doesn’t mix well. Use a thin drinkable yogurt or a lassi-style drink, adding a little sugar if needed.
What can I use instead of soju?
Vodka diluted with water is the closest substitute, since soju has a similar neutral taste but is lower in alcohol.
Conclusion
Yogurt soju is a fun, three-ingredient Korean cocktail that is sweet, tangy and fizzy – perfect next to fried chicken and spicy snacks. Mix it fresh, keep the servings small, and for a refreshing alcohol-free Korean drink try our maesil ade.
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