The New Year Brings Fresh Stories Worth Your Time
As we settle into 2026, webtoon platforms are already delivering some incredible new series. Whether you're a longtime fan of Korean webtoons or just discovering the format after hits like Solo Leveling and Tower of God, this week's new releases offer something special for everyone.
Top 5 New Webtoons to Start Reading Now
1. Phantom Protocol
Available on Webtoon, this sci-fi thriller combines the intensity of Sweet Home with cyberpunk aesthetics reminiscent of Blade Runner. The first episode drops you into a neon-drenched Seoul where hackers battle corporate AIs. If you loved Omniscient Reader, the intricate world-building here will feel right at home.
2. The Last Alchemist
Launching on Tapas, this fantasy series takes the classic isekai formula and adds a refreshing twist. Unlike typical power fantasy stories, our protagonist must rebuild a destroyed magic system from scratch. Fans of Frieren and Delicious in Dungeon will appreciate the thoughtful approach to fantasy tropes.
3. Midnight Delivery
A horror-comedy hybrid on Webtoon that follows a food delivery driver who only works the graveyard shift—and encounters supernatural customers. Think Hellbound meets dark humor, with stunning artwork that shifts between cute and terrifying seamlessly.
4. Constellation Wars
This action series on Manta brings constellation-based powers to a modern setting. If you've been craving something with the strategic battles of Jujutsu Kaisen combined with the mythology-heavy storytelling of Korean fantasy, this is your pick.
5. Second Lead Syndrome
A meta rom-com on Lezhin where the female lead realizes she's a side character in someone else's love story—and decides to rewrite her fate. Perfect for fans of True Beauty and Lore Olympus who want something self-aware and witty.
Why These Series Stand Out
What makes these new releases special is their first-episode hooks. Korean webtoon creators have mastered the art of the cold open, and each of these series demonstrates why the vertical scroll format continues to revolutionize digital comics. The pacing, the cliffhangers, and the art direction are all calibrated to keep Western readers scrolling.
Where to Read
- Webtoon - Free with ads, premium fast-pass options
- Tapas - Mix of free and premium content
- Manta - Subscription-based, ad-free experience
- Lezhin - Premium platform with mature content options
Happy reading, and let us know which series captured your attention!