Two ingredients. Your preferred balance. More room for conversation.
A good somaek pour starts with two ingredients. A memorable somaek moment starts with the people around your table.
You have the soju, the beer and a table worth gathering around. Now comes the question: how much of each goes into the glass?
Making somaek is simple. The ratio helps you find the balance you enjoy—and repeat it the next time you pour.
This guide explains what the numbers mean, offers a few easy measurements and shows how Large Somaek’s soju guide lines bring consistency to your mix.
What is somaek?
Somaek is a mixture of soju and beer. Its name combines soju with maekju, the Korean word for beer.
If you’re discovering it for the first time, our What Is Somaek? guide explores the drink and the culture behind it. For a closer look at the spirit—including plain and fruit varieties—visit What Is Soju?.
Here, we’ll focus on the pour.
What do somaek ratios mean?
Throughout this guide, ratios are written as soju : beer.
A 1:3 ratio means one measure of soju for every three equal measures of beer. That could be:
- 1 US fluid ounce of soju and 3 US fluid ounces of beer.
- 2 US fluid ounces of soju and 6 US fluid ounces of beer.
- 50 milliliters of soju and 150 milliliters of beer.
The amount changes, but the proportions stay the same.
One detail matters: 1:3 means soju makes up one-quarter of the combined liquid, because the mixture contains four parts altogether.
Use the same measurement unit for both ingredients, and leave room in the glass for foam.
Is there a “golden ratio” for somaek?
A commonly cited somaek “golden ratio” is 3:7—three parts soju to seven parts beer. That makes soju 30% of the combined liquid.
It is a useful reference point, but your preferred mix may be different. The beer, the soju and your own taste all influence the result.
Large Somaek’s signature concept uses 1:3, or 25% soju and 75% beer by liquid volume. It is a distinct proportion from 3:7, with a slightly greater share of beer.
Neither ratio measures the finished drink’s alcohol percentage. That depends on the alcohol content of both bottles.
Three ratios to explore
These examples all make 200 milliliters of liquid, making the proportions easy to compare.
| Soju : beer | Soju | Beer | Soju’s share of the mix |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:4 | 40 ml | 160 ml | 20% |
| 1:3 | 50 ml | 150 ml | 25% |
| 3:7 | 60 ml | 140 ml | 30% |
These are comparison pours, not a requirement to fill your glass. You can make a smaller amount while keeping the same proportions.
When comparing ratios, keep the beer and soju the same. Changing one thing at a time makes it easier to recognize what you prefer.
How to make somaek, step by step
1. Start with chilled ingredients
Choose your soju and beer, and have a clean glass ready. For your first comparison, use the same bottles throughout so you can focus on the ratio.
2. Measure the soju
Pour your chosen amount into the glass. A measuring jigger works well; printed soju guide lines offer another visible reference.
3. Add the beer gradually
Measure the beer for the ratio you’ve selected, then pour slowly. Watch the foam and stop before the glass becomes too full.
4. Mix gently
Give the drink a gentle stir with a spoon to combine the ingredients. A simple mix is enough.
5. Remember your preferred pour
Once you find a balance you enjoy, note the soju amount, beer amount and bottles you used. Those details help you recreate the experience.
How Large Somaek’s guide lines help
Large Somaek’s soju guide lines are printed on the back of the glass. They help you measure the soju before adding beer, giving you a repeatable starting point.
The lines measure the soju; the amount of beer completes the ratio.
For example, if your glass has a 50 ml marking, pouring soju to that line and adding 150 ml of beer produces a 1:3 mix.
Adding a different amount of beer changes the ratio—even when you use the same soju line. For an exact proportion, measure both ingredients. For your personal everyday pour, remember the guide line and beer amount you enjoy.
Explore Why Large Somaek? to see the markings and the thinking behind the larger glass.
Understanding the 4 oz + 12 oz concept
Large Somaek’s signature design concept pairs 4 US fluid ounces of soju with 12 US fluid ounces of beer. Together, those amounts equal 16 US fluid ounces at a 1:3 ratio.
That describes the liquid proportions. It leaves no allowance for foam in a nominal 16 oz glass, so scale the pour down for comfortable mixing and serving.
For example, 3 US fluid ounces of soju and 9 US fluid ounces of beer preserve the same ratio while totaling 12 US fluid ounces.
A larger glass gives you room to work with your preferred amount. You do not need to fill it to the top.
Bring the mix to the table
A measured pour is only one part of the gathering. Set out something good to eat, welcome different beverage choices and let the conversation find its rhythm.
Our Korean Food & Culture page explores shared dishes, hospitality and recipes to try.
Choose your balance. Make room for foam. Make room for conversation.
Find your Large Somaek glass →
Quick questions
Is 1:3 the same as 3:7?
No. A 1:3 mix is 25% soju by liquid volume; a 3:7 mix is 30% soju.
Do I need a special glass?
No. You can measure both ingredients into a suitable glass. Soju guide lines make the starting measurement easier to repeat.
Can I use plain or fruit soju?
Either can be used, but changing the soju changes the flavor. Our soju guide explains the differences.
Does the ratio tell me the alcohol strength?
No. Check both bottles’ alcohol percentages. The proportion of soju in the mixture is different from the mixture’s alcohol percentage.
Do I have to use the full glass?
No. Keep your preferred proportions, choose the amount you want and leave room for foam.