Hello Soju, a Los Angeles, CA-based ready-to-drink sparkling soju brand born at the intersection of Korean and California culture, closed a $6.8m funding round.
The round was led by a personal investment from Ted Schlein of Kleiner Perkins and Ballistic Ventures, and supported by Hello Soju parent company THG.
The company intends to use the funds to accelerate the nationwide relaunch — set to kick off with a pre-sale this April and full market return by late summer.
Led by Elisabeth Baron, newly appointed CEO, and co-founders Nick Schlein, and Taylor Jones, Hello Soju delivers sparkling flavors including Asian Pear, Lemon Yuzu, Green Grape, Peach, and Lychee.
In tandem with the brand’s relaunch, Hello Soju recently added business leaders Dan Ginsberg and Sandra “Sandey” Kang to its Board of Directors.
The new capital will support expanded production, strategic marketing, as well as the brand’s debut in the spirits category with the introduction of a premium 700ml rice-based Soju spirit, launching this summer.
