This study was conducted in ordor to find the most suitable conditions for producing the Doenjang with optimal odor compound contents. Three sample groups with the different preparing methods -Doenjang that has not gone through the soy sauce separation process (Doenjang A), Doenjang that has gone through the soy sauce separation process; Meju-20% salt water ratio of 1 : 4 (Doenjang B), and that with the ratio of 1.3 : 4 (Doenjang C)- were tested during different ripening periods. Odor compound contents were analyzed through Solvent Extraction Method and Simultaneous Steam Distillation Extraction (SDE). The number of odor compounds was greatest in Doenjang A and during the mid to late stage in each groups. In the sensory evaluation of Doenjang odors, Doenjang A received the highest scores in the categories of overall preferences, while Doenjang C got the lowest scores. Individual odor didn't vary significantly during ripening periods, but the overall odor and taste preference was highest in the samples ripened for 75 to 120 days. Stepwise multiple regression analysis of major odor compounds of Doenjang revealed that benzeneacetaldehyde is the major explanatory variable for offensive odor. Benzeneethanol, 3-methylthio-propanal and 4-methyl-phenol are the explanatory variables for salty odor, nutty odor and rancid odor, respectively. Odor compounds that contribute to the overall odor preference varied from the compounds that affect the taste preference.