Why Korean Webtoons Are Taking Over the World
If you've binged Solo Leveling on Crunchyroll or heard about Tower of God getting another anime season, you've already experienced the tip of the webtoon iceberg. Korean webtoons (manhwa) offer something unique: vertical scrolling format, stunning full-color art, and storytelling that rivals the best manga and Western comics.
7 Essential Webtoons for Beginners
1. Tower of God (신의 탑) by SIU
Think of it as the Korean equivalent of One Piece—an epic adventure with incredible worldbuilding. Available on Webtoon, this series has over 600 chapters and spawned a popular anime. Perfect if you love shonen manga.
2. Solo Leveling (나 혼자만 레벨업) by Chugong & DUBU
The series that introduced millions to Korean manhwa. An overpowered protagonist done right, with jaw-dropping action art. If you enjoyed Sword Art Online or Overlord, this is your next obsession.
3. Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe
A Western-created webtoon that proves the format transcends borders. Greek mythology meets modern romance with gorgeous, unique art. Winner of multiple Eisner Awards.
4. The God of High School by Yongje Park
Non-stop martial arts action that puts Dragon Ball fights to shame. The anime adaptation only scratched the surface—the webtoon goes much deeper.
5. Sweet Home by Youngchan Hwang & Carnby Kim
Horror fans, this one's for you. Monsters, survival, and psychological terror. Already adapted into a hit Netflix series, but the original webtoon is even more intense.
6. Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint by singNsong & Sleepy-C
Meta-fiction at its finest. A reader becomes a character in his favorite web novel. Think Ready Player One meets isekai, with incredible plot twists.
7. Remarried Empress by Alphatart & Sumpul
For romance enthusiasts—court intrigue, revenge, and a protagonist who refuses to be a victim. Shows the diversity of webtoon genres beyond action.
Where to Read
- Webtoon (LINE Webtoon) - Largest English platform, free with ads
- Tapas - Great for indie creators and romance
- Tappytoon - Official translations of popular Korean series
- Manta - Subscription-based unlimited reading
Pro Tips for New Readers
Start with completed series if you hate waiting for updates. Use the vertical scroll format—it's designed that way for a reason. And don't skip the comments section; the webtoon community is surprisingly wholesome.