The Webtoon Revolution is Your Opportunity
The digital comics industry has exploded globally, with platforms like Webtoon, Tapas, and Manta actively seeking fresh talent. If you've ever dreamed of creating the next Lore Olympus, Tower of God, or UnOrdinary, there's never been a better time to start.
Step 1: Build Your Foundation
Master the Vertical Scroll Format
Unlike traditional comics, webtoons are designed for smartphone reading. This means:
- Panels flow vertically with strategic pacing
- Cliffhangers work differently—use white space to build tension
- Each episode needs a hook within the first 3 panels
Essential Tools to Get Started
- Clip Studio Paint – Industry standard with webtoon templates
- Procreate – Perfect for iPad artists
- Medibang Paint – Free alternative with cloud features
Step 2: Create Your Portfolio
Platforms want to see 3-5 polished episodes minimum. Focus on:
- A compelling first episode that establishes your premise
- Consistent art style across all samples
- Clear character designs with turnaround sheets
- A story outline showing you can plan long-term
Step 3: Choose Your Path to Publication
Webtoon Canvas (Free Publishing)
Start on Webtoon Canvas to build an audience organically. Success stories like Lore Olympus and Let's Play began here before getting featured and offered Originals contracts.
Platform Contests & Open Calls
- Webtoon Canvas Contest – Annual competition with cash prizes and potential Originals deals
- Tapas Ink – Tapas' publishing program for promising creators
- Manta Creator Program – Direct submission for ongoing consideration
Direct Pitching
Platforms like Tappytoon and Lezhin Comics accept direct pitches. Prepare a professional pitch deck with your concept, sample chapters, and marketing angle.
Step 4: Understand What Editors Want
Based on interviews with industry professionals, here's what makes submissions stand out:
- Strong opening hook – Readers decide within 10 seconds
- Marketable concept – Can you describe it in one sentence?
- Consistent upload schedule – Prove you can maintain weekly releases
- Engagement potential – Stories that spark discussion and sharing
Step 5: Build Your Brand Before You Launch
Successful webtoon creators treat themselves as brands:
- Share your art process on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter/X
- Engage with the webtoon community—comment on others' work
- Create a Patreon or Ko-fi for early supporters
- Document your journey—audiences love watching creators grow
Real Success Stories to Inspire You
Rachel Smythe (Lore Olympus) started as a fan artist before creating one of Webtoon's biggest hits. Uru-chan (UnOrdinary) built her series from Canvas to becoming a chart-topper. Mongie (Let's Play) balanced a day job while building her audience—proof that you don't need to quit everything to pursue your dream.
Your Next Steps
The path to becoming a webtoon creator isn't a mystery—it's a marathon that rewards consistency and improvement. Start your first episode today, even if it's imperfect. Every successful creator began exactly where you are now.