Korean webtoons have grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry and a major part of global pop culture. They are now just as popular as Japanese manga, with millions of fans around the world. From romance to action and fantasy, Korean webtoons have something for everyone. Here, we take a closer look at the 10 most popular Korean webtoons of all time, including their readership, impact, and what makes them so special.
1. Tower of God
Tower of God by SIU is one of the most famous fantasy webtoons ever, with over 6 billion views worldwide. First published in 2010, the story follows Bam as he climbs a mysterious tower full of magical floors, unique cultures, and dangerous challenges. It has been officially translated into many languages and even adapted into a popular anime. Its complex world-building and deep characters attract over 40 million readers globally, making it a true fantasy classic.
2. Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling set the standard for action webtoons. Serialized from 2016 to 2021, it tells the story of Sung Jinwoo, who grows from the weakest hunter to the strongest hero in a world full of monsters. The webtoon has over 500 million views and 20 million subscribers. Its web novel has inspired an anime adaptation and translations in more than 10 languages. At its peak, it earned nearly 100 million KRW daily, proving its huge popularity.
3. True Beauty
Yaongyi’s True Beauty, running since 2018, is a high school romance about Lim Jugyeong, a girl who uses makeup to express herself and find her true identity. The webtoon has 6 million subscribers and over a billion views worldwide. It was also adapted into a hit TV drama loved internationally. Its heartfelt storytelling about youth and beauty standards resonates with readers around the globe.
4. Cheese in the Trap
Cheese in the Trap, launched in 2010 by Soonkki, has over 700 million views and 3 million subscribers. Known for its realistic campus life and psychological depth, it inspired both a drama and a feature film, earning a permanent spot as one of Korea’s most influential webtoons.
5. The God of High School
Yongje Park’s The God of High School, first published in 2011, remains a top action webtoon with over 1 billion views. Its unique mix of martial arts, mythology, and epic fight scenes has captivated millions. The series also became a successful anime, keeping fans engaged for over a decade.
6. Omniscient Reader
Sing Shong’s Omniscient Reader, released in 2020, has quickly grown in popularity with over 200 million views and 3 million fans. The story follows Kim Dokja, who knows the novel his world is based on, giving him a special advantage in a dangerous, apocalyptic setting. Its mix of gaming elements, suspense, and smart storytelling makes it a hit with younger global readers.
7. Lookism
Lookism by Taejun Pak has around 47 million weekly views and over 2 billion lifetime views, making it one of the most-read webtoons worldwide. It tells the story of a boy who can switch between two bodies, exploring themes like beauty standards, discrimination, and identity. The series is available in 15 languages and has even been adapted into an animated series.
8. Itaewon Class
Itaewon Class by Gwangjin is a story about Park Saeroyi, who fights for justice and success while running a bar in Seoul’s Itaewon district. With hundreds of millions of views and 1.5 million subscribers, the story inspired one of Netflix Korea’s biggest hits. It blends entrepreneurship, diversity, and personal growth, making it a cultural phenomenon.
9. Noblesse
Noblesse, created by Son Jeho and Lee Kwangsu, ran from 2007 to 2019, gaining 900 million views and 3.5 million subscribers. Its mix of supernatural action, drama, and complex characters has led to multiple anime adaptations, maintaining a loyal international fanbase.
10. Seasons of Blossom
Seasons of Blossom is a beautiful coming-of-age webtoon with over 100 million views and 500,000 fans in just three years. The story explores love, loss, and growing up, resonating with both teens and adults. Its honest storytelling encourages discussions about mental health and personal growth.
Conclusion
These 10 webtoons aren’t just popular; they’ve changed the way people read comics worldwide. With billions of views, millions of subscribers, and countless adaptations, Korean webtoons have influenced global pop culture. From anime to K-dramas, these stories continue to inspire fans everywhere. The future of Korean webtoons looks bright, as new stories keep entertaining and connecting people all over the world.
