Conclusion

Summary

We have so far explored a rich history of soju that involves its growth – first locally, then regionally, then globally – as an alcoholic beverage of choice made possible by the development of distillation technologies and their transfer through cross-cultural exchange. In the twenty-first century, soju has expanded beyond its longtime Korean horizons and entered the global market, where it has successfully won brand recognition and gained acceptance among the world’s universally popular spirits. This is taking the drink beyond not only its traditional economic sphere but its cultural sphere as well.