Korean manhwa has been around for quite a while, but for years, it didn’t get the attention it truly deserved.
However, these days, manhwa stories are enjoying more popularity than ever, especially with the rise of Webtoons. Notably, many beloved titles have been adapted into anime series recently.
Thanks to platforms like Crunchyroll, iconic Webtoon series have made their way to the small screen. With each passing season, more adaptations are hitting the scene, giving manhwa and Webtoons the recognition they’ve long been due.
For anime fans eager to read manhwa, these adaptations offer a fantastic entry point into some of the finest titles available.
Top 10 Best Webtoon Anime Adaptations
10. A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special
A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special, the anime adaptation, graced screens during the Fall 2023 season. Despite facing competition from more prominent titles, it garnered significant praise.
The series centers on Desir Herrman, a formidable mage thrust back 10 years into the past following a catastrophic event. Armed with foreknowledge, Desir is determined to alter the course of history and prevent the impending calamity.
Set within the halls of Hebrion Academy, the narrative unfolds as Desir finds his quest, enlisting fellow students to aid his cause.
While the storyline may tread familiar ground, it holds appeal for aficionados of classic isekai narratives, delivering a satisfying viewing experience.
9. Recovery of an MMO Junkie
Recovery of an MMO Junkie, an anime series released back in the Fall of 2017, emerged at a time when Webtoons were beginning to gain global recognition. The storyline revolves around Moriko Morioka, a 30-year-old woman who recently resigned from her job.
Preferring to retreat from the world, Moriko immerses herself in her favorite MMO game, spending her days lost in its virtual world. However, her solitary existence takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with a fellow player, revealing to Moriko that life holds more than just gaming.
The series portrays a heartfelt tale of love and self-discovery, delving into the challenges of isolation and the journey toward overcoming them.
With its blend of humor and genuine emotion, Recovery of an MMO Junkie captures the essence of human connection and resilience. Fans are certain to find inspiration in the endearing and supportive relationship between Moriko and Yuuta.
8. ReLIFE
ReLIFE unfolds as a classic tale of second chances, revolving around the life of Arata Kaizaki, a 27-year-old grappling with adversity.
When his life takes an unexpected turn, leaving him on the brink of despair, Arata is presented with a remarkable opportunity: the ReLIFE Project.
Embracing the experiment, Arata undergoes a transformation, regaining the appearance of a 17-year-old. Armed with the wisdom of adulthood, he embarks on a journey to rewrite his story, reentering high school with newfound purpose.
ReLIFE offers a fresh perspective on the concept of starting anew, weaving a poignant narrative of self-discovery and redemption as Arata endeavors to rectify the mistakes of his past.
7. Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady with the Lamp
Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady with the Lamp is one of the latest Webtoon adaptations to hit the scene, offering a fresh twist on the classic villainess isekai narrative.
The story centers around Dr. Aoi Takamoto, a renowned surgeon who once played the role of the nefarious villainess, Elise de Clorance. However, after a fateful plane crash brings her second life to an abrupt halt, she finds herself thrust back into her former existence as Elise.
Given a second chance in her previous world, Elise resolves to utilize her extensive medical expertise to pursue a path of redemption as a doctor, seeking to atone for her past transgressions.
Doctor Elise offers a compelling and unique exploration of the villainess trope, presenting a heartwarming tale of redemption and transformation. With a resilient and capable female protagonist at its helm, the series is poised to grab audiences with its poignant narrative.
6. Lookism
Lookism, an emotionally charged series, is a short, 8-episode-long ONA adaptation based on the popular manhwa of the same name.
It delves into the life of Park Hyung Suk, a high schooler plagued by insecurities and subjected to relentless bullying due to his appearance. Faced with unbearable mistreatment, Park decides to seek refuge by transferring to a new school.
However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he wakes up to find himself in a new, conventionally attractive and athletic body.
Discovering his newfound ability to switch between bodies, Park seizes the chance to get a fresh start at his new school. Yet, he soon realizes that the facade of attractiveness and popularity brings its own challenges.
Lookism portrays Park’s journey as he finds between his two identities, grappling with acceptance and self-discovery along the way. Through its impactful narrative, the series sheds light on the complexities of identity and the quest for self-acceptance.
5. Noblesse
Noblesse, a dark fantasy series adapted from the classic manhwa, immerses viewers in a world teeming with mystery and supernatural intrigue.
The story centers on Rai, an enigmatic supernatural being who awakens after 800 years only to find himself thrust into a modern era vastly different from the one he once knew. Reunited with his loyal servant, Rai assumes the guise of an ordinary high school student, attempting to blend in with his peers.
However, Rai’s tranquil school life is soon disrupted by the resurgence of an ancient adversary, compelling him to confront threats to his newfound existence and the safety of his friends.
Noblesse stands as one of the most cherished classic Webtoons, eagerly awaited by fans for its anime adaptation. It caters to aficionados of action and supernatural tales, boasting nice visuals and dynamic animation that promise an exhilarating viewing experience.
Yet, while Noblesse delivers on entertainment value, its storyline adheres closely to conventional shonen tropes, offering a familiar narrative that may lack originality for some viewers. Nonetheless, its enduring popularity attests to its appeal among audiences seeking thrilling escapades within the dark fantasy.
4. The God of High School
The God of High School, a beloved Webtoon renowned for its global popularity, stands as a quintessential battle shonen series. Set within the framework of a prestigious tournament, the narrative unfolds as young aspirants clash to assert their prowess as the strongest high school students.
Central to the story is Jin Mo-Ri, whose journey propels viewers into a world where powerful contenders converge to test their mettle.
Replete with adrenaline-fueled action and electrifying combat sequences, The God of High School emerges as a pinnacle of excitement among Webtoon adaptations.
Its narrative depth is underscored by a diverse ensemble cast, each character imbued with layers of complexity that enrich the storytelling experience. Furthermore, the series captivates audiences with its innovative take on classic shonen tropes, weaving a compelling of challenges and triumphs.
3. Tower of God
Tower of God, hailed as one of the most popular Webtoon adaptations to date, made its explosive anime debut in 2020, grabbing audiences worldwide with its gripping narrative.
The series chronicles the perilous odyssey of Bam, a young protagonist embarking on a quest to rescue Rachel, an enigmatic figure who irrevocably altered his destiny. As Bam ascends the towering labyrinth, he confronts a gauntlet of trials, steadfast in his resolve to conquer each obstacle in his path.
A saga brimming with suspense and survivalist tension, Tower of God immerses viewers in Bam’s relentless pursuit, each episode laden with heart-pounding drama.
The series is renowned for its spellbinding world-building, seamlessly weaving intricate landscapes and multifaceted characters into unparalleled depth.
Despite its anime adaptation being marred by a divisive cliffhanger ending and narrative inconsistencies, Tower of God endures as a cherished masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the Webtoon adaptations, setting a high standard for future endeavors in the genre.
2. Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion unravels the tale of a woman thrust into the pages of a fateful fantasy novel she once immersed herself in.
Transformed into Raeliana McMillan, she faces the grim prospect of meeting her demise once more, this time at the hands of her ill-fated fiancé. Determined to rewrite her destiny, Raeliana embarks on a daring gambit, seeking sanctuary in a fabricated engagement with Duke Noah Wynknight.
Despite the artificial nature of their arrangement, sparks ignite between Raeliana and her counterfeit betrothed. While she remains steadfast in her belief that their bond is purely a facade, Noah harbors intentions that transcend their charade.
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion traces the blossoming romance between this enchanting duo, as they find the treacherous waters of affection and deception, gradually succumbing to the allure of genuine love.
1. Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling, heralded as one of the hottest Webtoon series to date, has finally received the highly anticipated anime adaptation it deserves. Debuting as part of the Winter 2024 lineup, this electrifying new series has quickly become one of the standout titles of the year.
Set in a world where hunters wield extraordinary powers to combat monstrous threats and safeguard humanity, the story centers on Sung Jin-Woo, an E-rank hunter considered the weakest among his peers.
However, Jin-Woo’s fortunes take a dramatic turn after a harrowing ordeal pushes him to unlock his latent potential and ascend to unprecedented heights of strength.
Thus, he commences an exhilarating journey as Jin-Woo defies the odds, determined to carve his legacy as the greatest hunter of all time. Solo Leveling delivers a pulse-pounding narrative teeming with action, intrigue, and heartfelt emotion, solidifying its status as a trailblazing Webtoon phenomenon that has grabbed audiences worldwide.
Honorable Mention
Chou Nichirin Kitan
Hatsukoi Time
The Quiet Girl’s Erogenous Zone
Sauce here: Pixiv