Korean dramas based on webtoons have become some of the most addictive shows in recent years. What makes them even more exciting is that you can actually read the original stories that inspired them. From action-packed thrillers to heartwarming romance stories, these adaptations often stay true to their source material while adding cinematic depth. If you love watching K-dramas and want to dive deeper into the original webtoon versions, this list is for you. Here are ten of the best K-dramas based on webtoons that you can also read online today.
1. Itaewon Class
Itaewon Class is one of the most successful webtoon adaptations thanks to its inspiring underdog story and memorable characters. The drama follows Park Sae Roy as he builds a restaurant business while seeking justice against a powerful corporation. The original webtoon offers even more character backstory and emotional depth. Fans often enjoy comparing the differences between the drama and the source material. If you enjoy stories about perseverance, friendship, and revenge, both the drama and the webtoon deliver a satisfying experience that keeps you emotionally invested from start to finish.
2. True Beauty
True Beauty became a global hit thanks to its relatable story about self-esteem and appearance. The drama tells the story of a student who masters makeup to overcome bullying and discovers confidence along the way. The webtoon dives deeper into her internal struggles and friendships. Readers often appreciate the humour and slice-of-life moments that the drama could not fully explore. If you enjoy romantic comedies with meaningful life lessons, this is one adaptation where reading the webtoon adds even more emotional impact to the story you already love.
3. Sweet Home
Sweet Home stands out as a darker webtoon adaptation that mixes horror with psychological drama. The story follows residents trapped in an apartment building during a terrifying monster outbreak. The webtoon is known for its intense atmosphere and detailed character psychology. The drama adds cinematic action and visual effects while keeping the emotional core intact. If you enjoy suspense, survival stories, and character-driven horror, reading the original webtoon gives you extra insight into the fears and motivations of the characters beyond what the show reveals.
4. Business Proposal
Business Proposal is a fun romantic comedy that perfectly captures the charm of its webtoon origin. The story revolves around a woman who goes on a blind date pretending to be someone else, only to discover her date is her company CEO. The webtoon version includes extra comedic scenes and character thoughts that add context to the romance. Fans who enjoyed the fast-paced drama often turn to the webtoon to experience more of the couple’s chemistry and additional side stories that were not included in the television adaptation.
5. All of Us Are Dead
All of Us Are Dead brought the popular zombie school webtoon to life with intense action and emotional storytelling. The drama focuses on students trying to survive a sudden virus outbreak inside their high school. The original webtoon explores darker themes and includes additional survival scenarios. Readers often find the webtoon even more brutal and suspenseful. If you enjoy survival horror with strong emotional moments and moral dilemmas, reading the webtoon after watching the drama provides a deeper appreciation of the story’s complexity.
6. What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim
This romantic office drama became popular because of its charming leads and humorous situations. The story focuses on a narcissistic executive whose world changes when his highly capable secretary decides to resign. The webtoon version includes more detailed romantic development and comedic timing. Many fans say the original story offers more perspective on why the characters behave the way they do. If you enjoy lighthearted romance with strong character chemistry, both the drama and the webtoon offer plenty of entertaining and heartwarming moments.
7. My ID Is Gangnam Beauty
My ID Is Gangnam Beauty explores beauty standards and identity through the story of a college student who undergoes cosmetic surgery to escape bullying. The drama highlights social pressures while the webtoon goes deeper into the psychological impact of appearance-based judgment. Readers often appreciate the thoughtful storytelling and realistic character reactions. If you are interested in stories that explore confidence, acceptance, and personal growth, reading the webtoon alongside the drama helps you better understand the emotional journey of the main character.
8. Nevertheless
Nevertheless presents a realistic and sometimes frustrating portrayal of modern relationships. The story follows two college students caught between attraction and emotional uncertainty. The drama emphasizes mood and visual storytelling, while the webtoon gives more detailed explanations of the characters’ thoughts and motivations. Many readers find the webtoon version even more emotionally raw. If you enjoy mature romance stories that focus on complicated feelings and personal growth, this is one adaptation where reading the original story makes the experience even richer.
9. The Uncanny Counter
The Uncanny Counter blends supernatural action with heartfelt character stories. It follows demon hunters disguised as noodle shop workers who protect the world from evil spirits. The webtoon contains additional world-building and character arcs that expand the story beyond the drama. Fans who enjoy fantasy action often appreciate how the original material explains the powers and rules of the universe in more detail. If you like action mixed with emotional storytelling, both versions provide an exciting and meaningful viewing and reading experience.
10. Cheese in the Trap
Cheese in the Trap remains one of the most famous webtoon adaptations thanks to its psychological romance and complex characters. The story examines the complicated relationship between a hardworking college student and a mysterious senior. The webtoon is praised for its deep character analysis and slow-building tension. Readers often recommend experiencing the original version for a more complete understanding of the story. If you enjoy character-driven drama with subtle emotional conflict, this is a must-read webtoon after watching the series.
Conclusion
K-drama adaptations of webtoons offer a unique experience because fans can enjoy the same story in two different formats. Watching the drama brings the characters to life, while reading the webtoon often provides deeper storytelling and additional details. Whether you enjoy romance, horror, action, or slice-of-life stories, there is something on this list worth both watching and reading. Exploring both versions can make you appreciate the storytelling even more and might even introduce you to new webtoon series you would not have discovered otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are most K-dramas based on webtoons?
Not all K-dramas are based on webtoons, but the number has grown significantly in recent years. Producers often choose webtoons because they already have proven popularity and strong storytelling. This helps reduce risk and attracts existing fans who are curious to see their favorite characters adapted into live-action series.
Where can I read the original webtoons?
Many original webtoons are available on popular webtoon platforms and official apps that provide English translations. Some are free while others require coins or subscriptions. Availability depends on licensing and region, but the most popular drama adaptations can be found with official translations if you search their original titles.
Do K-dramas usually follow the webtoon story exactly?
Most adaptations follow the main storyline but make changes to fit television formats. Some characters may be removed or added, and endings can sometimes differ. This is why many fans enjoy reading the webtoon after watching the drama to see the original creative direction and additional story details.
Which genre works best for webtoon adaptations?
Romance, thriller, and fantasy tend to adapt well because webtoons often focus on strong character development and visual storytelling. Action and horror also work well due to their dramatic plots. However, any genre can succeed if the adaptation stays faithful to the emotional core of the original story.
Are webtoon-based dramas more successful?
Many webtoon-based dramas perform well because they already have a dedicated fanbase. This built-in audience often helps boost early viewership. However, success still depends on casting, directing, and writing quality. A popular webtoon does not always guarantee a successful television adaptation without strong production execution.
Should I read the webtoon before watching the drama?
It depends on your preference. Some people like reading first to imagine the story themselves. Others prefer watching first to avoid spoilers. Either approach works. Many fans enjoy experiencing both because it allows them to compare how the story was interpreted across different formats.
Why are webtoons popular sources for dramas?
Webtoons offer ready-made stories with strong pacing and visual appeal. Their episodic format makes them easy to adapt into drama episodes. Since they already prove audience interest, production companies see them as reliable sources for new series ideas that already have storytelling momentum.
Do actors read the webtoons before filming?
Many actors read the original webtoons to better understand their characters. This helps them capture personality traits and emotional nuances. Some actors even mention studying the artwork and dialogue to make their performances feel more authentic to fans of the original series.
Are there differences between webtoon and drama endings?
Yes, some dramas change the ending to better suit television audiences or time limits. This sometimes creates debate among fans. Reading the webtoon allows viewers to see the creator’s original intended conclusion and compare how the adaptation chose to interpret the final story arc.
Will more webtoons become K-dramas in the future?
The trend continues to grow as streaming platforms look for proven stories. With the global rise of Korean content, more webtoons are likely to be adapted. This means fans can expect many more favorite digital comics to become live-action series in the coming years.
