Within the realm of webtoons and manhwa lie undiscovered treasures waiting to be found amidst the shadows of obscurity. While some tales achieve fame and acclaim in this digital landscape, others of equal allure linger unnoticed beneath the surface. This article contains the 30 best underrated manhwa that promises thrilling escapades, immersive world-building, and characters that truly come alive on the page.
Top 30 Underrated ManhwaÂ
These 30 best underrated manhwa create compelling stories with beautiful and engaging worlds. Whether you like action, fantasy, romance, or camaraderie with drama, you will find entertaining stories here. Grab these unnoticed gems, and you may discover a new favorite webtoon to scroll through!Â
1. Top Underrated Manhwa: Your Throne
Lady Medea Solon and Princess Psyche Politan are competing for supremacy in the lands of Nicaea. Medea is dethroned and crowned Prince Eros’s fiancée, while Psyche occupies the throne. Thirsting for vengeance, Medea returns to the palace with a fierce determination to see herself valued once again. ‘Your Throne’ is full of political drama and morally flawed characters, leaving the readers constantly wondering who will win at the end.
2. Being Raised by Villains Â
In the romance fantasy webtoon Being Raised by Villains, Eirin is taken away from her parents and brought up by a criminal syndicate. During her formative years, under the mentorship of professional killers, robbers, and magicians, she acquires skills that help her cope with her surroundings. Despite her wicked family’s challenges to loyalty, the child harbors a softer side that yearns for love.
3. The Beginning After the EndÂ
In The Beginning After the End, we delve into the tale of King Grey, a mighty ruler who grapples with emptiness and loneliness despite his riches and influence. Following his unexpected passing and subsequent rebirth in a realm brimming with sorcery and fantastical beings as Arthur Leywin, he embarks on a journey armed with memories from his past existence, determined to lead a more meaningful life this time by forging true bonds and seeking purpose.Â
Arthur was raised in a supportive family environment. He underwent training to master his special skills in magic and combat, successfully turning into a talented individual in these fields. As he explores the world around him, Arthur meets friends and foes, realizing that there are risks and threats lurking in this realm. The presence of forces poses a danger to the harmony and tranquillity of this world, requiring Arthur to rise up against these challenges while dealing with his past and the weight of responsibilities accompanying his extraordinary abilities.
4. Top Underrated Manhwa: Happily Ever AfterwardsÂ
Happily Ever Afterwards tells the story of Princess Evangeline’s journey from a cherished heroine in a fairytale realm to a weary soul tired of facing heartbreaks in different lifetimes as the helpless maiden in need of rescue by a hero. Frustrated with being at the mercy of destiny and scripted narratives that control her life’s course, Evangeline joins forces with Amon, a wizard seeking to break free from the cycle of tales.
Evangeline and Amon set off on an adventure to reshape their futures together. They encounter adversaries from her life as they strive against those seeking to confine her to a predetermined path. The webtoon weaves humor with love and excitement as Evangeline gains strength and autonomy in her quest for a conclusion that doesn’t hinge on the Prince Charming” trope for rescue.
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5. I Raised a Black Dragon
I Raised a Black Dragon tells the tale of Noa—a lady finding herself in a world as a minor character within a novel’s realm. Upon stumbling upon an egg one day and unintentionally hatching it to reveal a dragon she names Ahin. She soon understands that Ahin is not merely an average dragon but a being of formidable might.
As they face the world’s perils together, Ahin stands guard for Noa in unwavering loyalty and strength. Their journey unfolds with schemes, dark adversaries coveting the dragon’s might, and a hint of love in the air. In this world, Noa strives to stay afloat while nurturing this formidable yet caring being beside her, unearthing her inner resilience and fate along the way.
6. How to Get My Husband on My Side
How to Get My Husband On My Side follows Ruby’s journey as an aristocratic lady caught in an arranged marriage with Izek for political reasons. A stoic knight hailing from a formidable northern realm. Despite her history and Izek’s aloof demeanor as her husband, Ruby endeavors to earn his respect and love by overcoming obstacles such as adjusting to a different culture, handling familial conflicts, and navigating the intricacies of court politics.
Ruby endeavors to penetrate Izek’s demeanor as they navigate through a maze of truths and plots that put their bond at risk. As her honesty and strength slowly chip away at Izek’s defenses, a delicate love story unfolds between them. Ruby and Izek must face their past scars and navigate through external influences to secure their happiness.
7. Best Underrated Manhwa: Surviving Romance
Surviving Romance is the story of a 10th grader at her high school, Chaerin. One day, she wakes up aware that she is in a romantic novel, but instead of formulating a love story, she is currently in the scenario of a zombie invasion. Thanks to her understanding skills and the course of events she is aware of, she must find a group of friends and classmates to overcome this terror. This manhwa combines psychological horror, survival, and romance but also challenges destiny and the characters’ positions.
8. Low-Rank Soldier Becoming a Monarch
Low-Rank Soldier Becoming A Monarch follows a soldier, Chris, of humble origins who dreams of becoming a powerful monarch. Chris starts as a lower-ranked warrior with neither talent nor backstopping. He learns to harness a fighting spirit and tenacity to fight upward little by little. In contrast to usual action-based stories, this manhwa also focuses on strategy and self-development, as the soldier now realizes that power alone is not sufficient for governance.
9. Light and ShadowÂ
Light and Shadow centers on a common maid named Edna, who becomes part of a new historical romance, manhwa. Despite marrying Duke Eli, she never reveals that she is a former noble. Both of these develop a trusting and caring relationship as they learn to trust themselves in the intricate political world. Revenge, social values, love, and duty, not without conflicts, are universal themes incorporated into the story.
10. Teenage MercenaryÂ
Teenage Mercenary focuses on Ijin Yu—a young teen thrust into life following the loss of his parents in a plane accident. Having navigated war zones for years to survive and adapt to his surroundings as a soldier, Yu eventually makes it back to his family in South Korea with aspirations of living a life. He finds himself grappling with his ingrained instincts and sharpened abilities from his time as a warrior.
In no time, Ijin is caught up in clashes with school bullies and shady characters. He relies on his fighting skills to shield his sister and buddies from harm’s way. In his quest for a tranquil existence, Ijin encounters a series of hurdles as his turbulent history looms large in the background, posing a challenge to his efforts to lead a life.
11. Best Underrated Manhwa: Viral Hit
In the underrated manhwa Viral Hit, Hobin Yoo is an aimless high school student with no future to look forward to. One day, he discovers a YouTube channel related to self-defense, which encourages him to upload his own ‘how to fight’ videos in which he defeats much stronger opponents. Rising into stardom comes at a price, and for Hobin, it involves challenges such as the dark side of viral stardom, rival fighters, and undesirable fights.
12. The Remarried Empress
The Remarried Empress tells the tale of Navier Trovi. Wedded to Emperor Sovieshu with an unwavering commitment to her responsibilities, Navier is a loyal princess. However, her life takes an unexpected twist as Sovieshu introduces an enigmatic concubine named Rashta. Rashta disrupts Navier’s marriage with the emperor and stirs tension in the palace walls. Navier bravely retains her grace despite feeling betrayed and publicly shamed while enduring the ordeal in silence. Her life takes a turn when she encounters Heinrey. She delves into a world of deceit and romance while preparing for a marriage and striving to regain power.
13. The Legend of the Northern Blade
When the evil forces of the Silent Night threaten the world, the Northern Heavenly Sect sends his brave warriors to fight against them. Centering on Jin Mu-Won, the last member of the Northern Heavenly Sect, who seeks others to follow him to unmask and overthrow the people behind his father’s mysterious disappearance. The Legend of the Northern Blade is filled with martial arts, vengeance, and creative frays, making it a true work of action with emotions.
14. I Killed Him
I Killed Him centers around Yeseul’s life as it takes a turn following an incident involving her sister becoming a target. The incident deeply affects Yeseul emotionally, overwhelming her with sorrow and anger at the injustice. Having no faith in the justice system to bring closure to her sister’s case, Yeseul decides to take matters into her own hands. Yeseul explores her inner struggles throughout the webtoon, grappling with remorse and wrath as she contemplates the repercussions of her actions.
15. The Skeleton Soldier Failed to Defend the Dungeon
A skeleton who is a soldier made to fight under the dungeon cannot fulfill his duties and, instead of having a good ending, dies shamefully. Then, he finds himself reincarnated, only that he retains the memories of his previous life. The difference this time is that he would make sure to protect his master and change the unmanifested fate for the better. There are concepts of time travel, dungeon crawling, and a weak-to-strong characterization of the main character in the Skeleton Soldier Failed to Defend the Dungeon.
16. Best Underrated Manhwa: Girl of the Wild’s
Since Wild’s High is a place for young, advanced martial artists, it now admits boys for even the first time in its history. Song Jae Gu is a scholarship student with no knowledge of martial arts; however, the other school’s female fighters keep pursuing him with a vengeance. This best underrated manhwa, Girl of the Wild, shows the man’s plight to assimilate, search for his identity, and conquer it, all while developing strong bonds with people.
17. The Ember Knight
Knights defending against the forces of darkness are not a new sight in the world of fiction. The Ember Knight features a plot of this description. It tells of a disgraced knight, Nagyunn, who wishes to save himself from the demon who caused such a disgrace. It is a story as true as it is entertaining, containing massive battles against monsters, evil forces, and the monster within as the knight proceeds in search of honor.
18. Death’s Game
Only in Death’s Game does a person learn to appreciate life when Death is handed out a ‘second chance’ due to dying too early. Nevertheless, this new life proves to be a nightmare as it becomes very dangerous: Choi Yee-Jae can die again, but this time for good. The action employed in his work blends different genres together, including the manhwa, with unique philosophical ideas and morals surviving against all odds through such barbaric tasks.
19. The Horizon
The Horizon is a moving webcomic that explores the aftermath of war from the perspective of two kids. The narrative tracks a boy who navigates a post-war landscape after the loss of his mother to the ravages of battle. He encounters a fellow orphaned girl on his journey. They develop a connection that offers solace amidst a world devoid of hope. Navigating through a terrain rife with turmoil and sorrowful encounters unveils the truths of human callousness. The webcomic captures a poignant and minimalist portrayal of the innocence overshadowed by war and the quest for purpose.
20. The Little Lady Behind the Scenes
In The Little Lady Behind the Scenes, Julianne embodies perfection with her beauty and intelligence; however, her taste in men proves problematic. Time to save her sister from mishaps, Lilianne steps in to guide Julianne towards a more suitable suitor. As potential suitors strive to impress by catering to Lilianne’s preferences, a heartfelt matchmaking tale ensues. In this underrated manhwa, Lilianne encounters a variety of appealing yet imperfect individuals while uncovering more about herself and her sister’s genuine wishes.
21. Top Underrated Manhwa: If AI Ruled the World
If AI Ruled the World is a dystopian manhwa focusing on the aspect of artificial intelligence ruling the society. Tapirus realized that people increasingly rely on AI daily, taking a major risk of being overtaken by machines. However, he begins to understand that these machines are not as innocent as they seem. Along the way, they discover the unsettling truth about the tyranny of AI, which evokes concepts such as free will, personal identity, and technology.
22. Child of the Sheath
In a world where human beings are bound to swords, Bira, the protagonist, is cursed to wield a powerful sword. Known as the Child of the Sheath, she bears the burden of inflicting pain and suffering with her sword. This dark fantasy manhwa depicts her fight against death, fight for vengeance, and quest for retribution.
23. Kill the Dragon
The setting of “Kill the Dragon” is a middle-aged fantasy, and it’s about a little boy, Lee Han, who is a hero who slaughters the dragon that has been terrorizing the kingdom. In this world, dragons are not just animals; they possess some very ancient magic and intelligence, which makes it almost impossible to kill them. He starts the adventure with fierce fights, wicked foes, and ethical questions about the nature of the hero he is embarking on.
24. Like Wind On A Dry Branch
This come-and-goes historical romance, Like Wind on a Dry Branch, is set during a war and famine. The lead character, Elize, is a widow without a home, family, or title. Elize’s fortune changes when she becomes Kayern’s personal maid. As her trauma fades away and she finds herself adjusting to life again, Elize flees in search of Kayern’s goodness. The two become very close to each other, developing a romance, interweaving twirling plots of dreadfulness and impending warfare.
25. Best Underrated Manhwa: Hero Killer
Siyeon, a little girl, keeps hidden from others that her family was murdered by the central characters of the story, referred to as Hero Killer. Gripped with such intense loathing and the desire for revenge, Siyeon begins the hunt for those who call themselves heroes. Siyeon discovers that the heroes she investigates are not as virtuous as they seem. She unearths an extreme level of corruption and betrayal, blurring the lines between good and evil. The most interesting aspects of this underrated manhwa reveal what a hero truly is. “Hero Killer” presents action, suspense, moral dilemmas, and vengeance.
26. The Lazy Lord Masters the Sword
The Lazy Lord Masters the Sword tells the story of Irene Pareira, infamous for his disinterest in life’s affairs. A determined swordsman frequently appears in his vivid dreams. It compels him to spend most of his days taking up the blade and leaving his bed with a new demeanor. Motivated by this recurring vision, Irene embarks on a journey to master the art of swordsmanship against all odds.
Driven by a desire to alter his destiny, Irene sets out on a path of growth, encountering a series of trials. In his quest, he clashes with competing swordsmen and grapples, with his struggles evolving gradually from an idle aristocrat into a proficient swordsman.
27. The Nebula’s Civilization
The Nebula’s Civilization is a sci-fi webtoon that deals with space and planet colonization grandly. The plot deals with the attempts made by humans to create a new outpost away from Earth. In this underrated manhwa, Choi Sung-woon is a great scientist who has to manage such an important program. However, as the new settlers try to create their new life, they realize that there are some inexplicable occurrences and different beings that are hostile and, in some cases, threaten the entire mission.
28. Academy’s Undercover Professor
Academy’s Undercover Professor revolves around Professor Ludger Cherish at a wonderful college where students learn the art of sorcery and alchemy. In a magical academy, this manhwa tells the story of students being trained to perform sorcery and alchemy. However, the protagonist has a hidden secret. An expert on espionage, that man has infiltrated the academy to uncover the root cause of the odd occurrences.
Under an assumed name, he lectures, observes workshops, and communicates with students whilst attempting to investigate what dark powers lurk behind the facades. Meanwhile, he meets young geniuses, professors, and other enemies who are out to blow his cover. The story weaves humorous sequences throughout the action and mystery, captivating the world of magic and intrigue.
29. Revenge of the Baskerville Bloodhound
Revenge of the Baskerville Bloodhound follows the last surviving member of the Baskerville family, Vikir Van Baskerville. Trained as a deadly assassin, the “Bloodhound,” embarks on a relentless quest for revenge. His objective is to bring down the powerful enemies responsible for their family’s downfall. Set in a dark, Victorian-inspired world of corruption and intrigue, this underrated manhwa weaves between past and present, revealing hidden conspiracies and long-buried secrets.Â
30. Best Underrated Manhwa: Debut or Die
Debut or Die follows the life of Hyeon-ju, a young man unexpectedly thrown into the cutthroat world of entertainment. In an alternate reality, he discovers that failing to become a successful idol leads to career setbacks and death. In the face of high stakes, Hyeon-ju navigates the competitive idol industry and uncovers its dark secrets. As he battles through grueling auditions, intense training, and backstage politics, Hyeon-ju learns that his only way to escape this life-or-death situation is to debut as an idol.
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