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Top eight anime based on manhwa ranked! See why these series leading and reshaping the animated storytelling with newer hits.
We’ve seen an explosion of anime based on manhwa hitting our screens. If you’re unfamiliar, manhwa are Korean comics that have been gaining massive popularity globally, and now the anime industry has taken notice. They are very different from their Japanese manga counterparts. These Korean stories often bring fresh perspectives, unique art styles, and compelling storylines that translate beautifully into animated form.
If you are already a fan of manhwa or just looking for something new to watch, these adaptations are the best way into the colorful world of Korean comics.
8. Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion
This 2024 utopian romance anime based on Manhwa follows Eunha Park, who wakes up as a character in a novel she once read. Now living as Raeliana McMillan, she discovers she’s destined to be murdered, prompting her to seek protection from Duke Noah Wynknight through a contract engagement.
The anime adaptation beautifully captures the manhwa’s stunning art style and courtly aesthetic. With its mix of romance, mystery, and fantasy elements, this anime stands out in the otome isekai genre. The chemistry between Raeliana and Noah propels the story forward, while the political conspiracy and danger keep viewers hooked.
Though it ranks eighth on our list, Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion still delivers engaging character development, stunning visuals, and enough plot twists to make it worth watching for fans of romantic fantasies.
7. Viral Hit
Originally known as How to Fight in its manhwa form, this anime adaptation brings street fighting and social media fame together in a unique combo. The story follows Yu Hobin, a frequent bullying target who learns fighting techniques from an online channel and documents his progress, gradually gaining followers and strength.
The anime expertly captures the raw energy of street fights while exploring themes of bullying, self-improvement, and internet culture. Its animation style emphasizes impact in fight scenes, making each punch feel consequential.
Viral Hit stands out because of its realistic approach to fighting—no supernatural powers here, just hard work and strategy. The series balances intense action with genuine character growth and occasional humor. While newer than some entries on this list, it’s quickly establishing itself as a must-watch for action anime fans looking for something grounded yet entertaining.
6. A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special
This magical academy anime offers a fresh spin on the time travel trope. After humanity’s defeat in a catastrophic war, Desir Arman and his comrades die fighting the final shadow world. However, Desir mysteriously returns 13 years into the past, determined to change the future using his knowledge.
The anime adaptation shines with its detailed magic system and spectacular battle sequences. Unlike many magical academy shows, the stakes feel genuinely high as Desir works against time to prevent the apocalypse. The animation quality particularly elevates the complex magic battles that are central to the manhwa’s appeal.
A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special stands out for its balance of strategic thinking, action, and character development. While the time travel premise isn’t new, its execution feels fresh. The series rewards viewers with satisfying strategic victories and meaningful progression toward averting disaster, making it a solid entry in the growing library of manhwa-inspired anime.
5. Lookism
This gripping anime explores social bias through a supernatural twist. Park Hyung-suk, a chubby teenager regularly bullied for his appearance, mysteriously gains a second body—tall, handsome, and athletic. Alternating between both bodies, he experiences firsthand how differently society treats people based solely on looks.
Netflix’s adaptation captures the manhwa’s sharp social commentary while delivering stylish animation that emphasizes both the beauty and ugliness of its world. The contrast between Hyung-suk’s treatment of each body forms powerful social criticism that elevates this anime beyond typical school dramas.
Lookism evolves from focusing on appearance-based discrimination to exploring deeper issues, including class inequality and corruption. The series balances its serious themes with action sequences and character development that keep viewers engaged. Its unique premise and execution make it one of the most socially relevant anime based on manhwa currently available.
4. Noblesse
This vampire-themed anime centers on Cadis Etrama Di Raizel (Rai), an ancient and powerful Noble who awakens after 820 years of slumber. Adjusting to modern Korea with his loyal servant Frankenstein, Rai enrolls in high school while confronting a sinister organization experimenting on humans.
The anime adaptation delivers sleek action sequences and striking visual effects that highlight the supernatural elements of the manhwa. The contrasting dynamics between Rai’s dignified power and his adorable cluelessness about modern technology create both dramatic tension and comedic relief.
The series excellently balances intense battles with lighter moments of Rai partaking in everyday activities for the first time. Its mix of action, supernatural elements, and character-driven storytelling makes Noblesse a standout among manhwa adaptations, especially for fans of action and supernatural themes.
3. Tower of God
This spooky anime based on manhwa follows Twenty-Fifth Bam, a boy who has spent most of his life trapped beneath a vast tower. When his only friend, Rachel, enters the tower, Bam follows her, uncovering that each floor includes tests that selected “Regulars” must pass to ascend higher. Supposedly, reaching the top grants any wish.
The anime adaptation vividly captures the manhwa’s unique visual style and world-building. Director Takashi Sano brings creator SIU’s distinctive artistic vision to life with stunning animation that highlights the tower’s otherworldly quality. The haunting soundtrack perfectly complements the mysterious atmosphere that makes this series so captivating.
Just when you think you understand a character’s motivations, new revelations change everything. With its compelling story of friendship, betrayal, and ambition, Tower of God keeps viewers on edge.
2. The God of High School
This action-packed anime centers on a fighting tournament where high schoolers compete for the ultimate prize: having any wish granted. Protagonist Jin Mori and his friends soon discover the competition masks a sinister plot involving supernatural powers and ancient gods.
MAPPA delivers some of the most fluid, dynamic fight animation in recent years. Each punch, kick, and supernatural technique feels impactful, making this a visual feast for action fans. The anime condenses the manhwa’s early arcs but retains the high-energy combat that made the source material popular.
The God of High School masterfully blends martial arts and mythology, seamlessly incorporating traditional fighting techniques with supernatural abilities derived from Korean and world mythologies.
1. Solo Leveling
Topping this list is the phenomenal Solo Leveling, which took the anime world by storm in 2024. Following Sung Jinwoo’s transformation from the world’s weakest hunter to an unparalleled force, this dark fantasy series captures everything fans loved about the original manhwa.
A-1 Pictures delivers breathtaking animation that perfectly translates the manhwa’s iconic moments. From the dungeon crawls to the shadow army sequences, every frame showcases meticulous attention to detail. The adaptation maintains the source material’s tension and excitement while enhancing the visual impact of Jinwoo’s evolving powers.
Watching Jinwoo rise from rock bottom to godlike status is incredibly satisfying. The series balances thrilling action with genuine character development and world-building that keeps viewers invested beyond the spectacle.
Conclusion
The rise of anime based on manhwa marks an exciting evolution in animated storytelling. These Korean-originated tales showcase the incredible diversity and potential of manhwa as source material.
As more studios look beyond manga for inspiration, we can expect even more manhwa adaptations in the coming years. This artistic cross-pollination is producing some of the most imaginative and visually striking anime today. These eight adaptations provide the perfect introduction to this rapidly expanding corner of the anime world.
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