The Ultimate Ranking of Webtoon-Inspired K-Dramas

Article Overview

K-dramas based on webtoons have gained popularity and acclaim, appealing to both fans of K-dramas and those who are new to the genre.

Some K-dramas adhere closely to their original source, while others diverge creatively to enhance the narrative. Webtoons offer a diverse selection of genres and captivating storylines, making them a valuable resource for K-drama storytelling.

Comics and webtoons have always been a source of inspiration for TV adaptations, and the top K-dramas based on webtoons are no exception. In South Korea, Naver launched WEBTOONS, a publishing portal that gained immense popularity. However, webtoons are available on various platforms beyond Naver. With the growing popularity of webtoons in South Korea, the idea of adapting them for television was born. Many highly praised K-dramas that can be streamed were originally webtoons, attracting both non-K-drama fans and dedicated enthusiasts.

Several of the best K-dramas based on webtoons stay true to the original material, while others may deviate for storytelling purposes. Some long-running K-dramas even surpass the storyline of their webtoon counterparts. K-dramas have become a dominant force on streaming platforms, such as Netflix, thanks to their captivating storylines encompassing drama, comedy, romance, action, and even elements of horror. Some of the most outstanding K-dramas actually started off as webtoons.

18. My Roommate Is A Gumiho (2021)

Stream Now On Amazon Prime Video

The 2021 K-drama My Roommate is a Gumiho is a fantasy series that follows the story of Shin Woo-yeo (Jang Ki-Yong), a 999-year-old Gumiho. Unlike traditional myths where the Gumiho is a beautiful woman who seduces and consumes men's hearts or livers, Shin is a male Gumiho who dreams of becoming human and experiencing love. His desire is to lead a normal life with someone he truly cares for.

17. Aftermath (2014)

Originally a webtoon, the live-action series consisted of 16 episodes. However, the webtoon version of My Roommate is a Gumiho has been running for 163 episodes and continues to release new content. Both versions tell the story of a 24-year-old woman named Dam Lee who becomes roommates with a 900-year-old Gumiho. This unique arrangement begins after she accidentally swallows one of his beads, which poses a life-threatening situation. If she fails to remove the bead within a year, she will face death while the Gumiho remains forever non-human.

Currently Unavailable For Streaming

After being involved in a car accident, Ahn Dae Young, a quiet high school student in South Korea, gains the ability to predict who is a killer and who is about to die by the change in color of their eyes. If their eyes turn red, he knows that they are destined to die. However, Dae Young realizes that he can intervene and prevent these deaths, leading him to embrace his newfound powers and become a hero. The supernatural web series, Aftermath, follows his journey as he saves lives and faces off against a nemesis with the same abilities. Originally based on a webtoon by Kim Sun-kwon, the series aired in 2014, consisting of two seasons with a total of 11 episodes, each episode lasting approximately 10 minutes.

16. Itaewon Class (2020)

Stream Now On Netflix

The South Korean series of 2020 is an adaptation of the webtoon with the same title. This 16-episode series revolves around the theme of revenge, following the journey of Park Sae-ro-yi (Park Seo-joon) as he seeks to avenge his father's untimely demise by plotting to kill Geun-won (Ahn Bo-hyun). Meanwhile, Park's girlfriend, Oh Soo-ah (Kwon Na-ra), ends up having her university fees sponsored by Geun-won, and subsequently secures a job within his company, the Jangga Group. However, upon his release from prison, Park strives to rebuild his life but remains driven by his desire for retribution against the Jangga Group for his father's death. In his quest for justice, Park allies himself with a group of newfound friends, as they endeavor to achieve success once and for all.

The webtoon that the K-Drama Itaewon Class is based on consisted of 81 episodes, whereas the TV series adaptation only had 16 episodes. The webtoon concluded in 2021, a year after the series aired. The series remained faithful to the webtoon and followed the story closely. However, there was some criticism regarding the portrayal of Jo Yi-seo (Kim Da-mi) in the live-action version, as her character seemed to lack the independence and strength exhibited in the webtoon.

Release Date January 31, 2020Cast Park Seo-joon, Kim Da-mi, Yoo Jae-myung, Nara, Ahn Bo-HyunSeasons 1

15. Memorist (2020)

Available To Stream On Rakuten Viki

Memorist, a thrilling K-drama based on the webtoon by Jae Hoo, captivated audiences in 2020 when it aired on tvN. Starring Yoo Seung-Ho as Dong Baek, a police detective with the incredible ability to delve into people's memories, this crime/mystery drama quickly emerged as one of the best adaptations of a webtoon to date.

With a suspenseful serial killer plotline, Memorist takes viewers on a gripping journey as Dong Baek teams up with a criminal profiler to track down a relentless murderer. As they delve deeper into the investigation, their haunting pasts resurface, revealing a far more intricate web of mystery and danger than they ever anticipated. This distinctive drama skillfully weaves together elements of thriller and intrigue, captivating its audience throughout its 16 episodes.

Notably, Memorist also reunites Yoo Seung-ho and Lee Se-young, who previously starred together in Missing You, further adding to the on-screen chemistry and appeal of this must-watch series.

14. Mystic Pop-Up Bar (2020)

Available To Stream On Netflix

Mystic Pop-Up Bar, based on the webtoon "Ssanggabpocha" by Bae Hye-Soo, has emerged as one of the top K-dramas. Since its availability on Netflix for global viewers, the show has gained immense popularity. The webtoon was originally published in 2016 and later adapted into a 12-episode series released in 2020. With its intriguing supernatural elements, Mystic Pop-Up Bar has successfully captivated both audiences and critics, receiving high ratings.

The show centers around the intertwined lives of three main characters in the most enchanting manner imaginable. An enigmatic food cart owner operates a rooftop bar that exclusively opens during the night, and she harbors a captivating backstory. Compelled to serve a sentence for her prior actions, she devotes herself to listening to and aiding customers in conquering their internal battles. Accompanying her is a young man gifted with the ability to elicit confessions, and the shop's manager, who was once her former lover.

13. True Beauty (2020)

Available To Stream On Rakuten Viki

Debuting in 2020, True Beauty took the streaming platforms by storm, captivating viewers with its enchanting storyline. Regarded as one of the finest K-dramas adapted from webtoons, this romantic series follows the journey of Lim Ju-kyung (Moon Ga-young), a teenager who had endured constant mockery due to her appearance. Seizing the opportunity to switch schools, Lim Ju-kyung embarks on a transformative makeover that changes her life forever.

becomes a beloved figure at school, exuding newfound self-assurance. The captivating storyline of the drama ensnares fans with its thrilling portrayal of a love triangle involving two former best friends vying for the affections of the protagonist. Inspired by a webtoon by Yaongyi, the creator expressed her joy in a YouTube video, seeing her creation come to life in the form of a drama. Furthermore, True Beauty's remarkable success led to its nomination and subsequent victory for the K-Drama of the Year at the Indonesian Hallyu Fans Choice Award.

Release Date December 9, 2020Cast Moon Ga-young, Cha Eun-woo, Jang Hye-jin, Park Ho-sanSeasons 1

12. Love Alarm (2019)

Available to stream on Netflix

Love Alarm, a highly acclaimed K-drama, gained its initial popularity online and is widely recognized as one of the top K-dramas based on webtoons. Created by Chun Gye-Young, who has been successful in producing various popular webtoons, Love Alarm stands as the first Netflix original in this category. Audiences became captivated by the story of young love and the gripping love triangle. Love Alarm has received four nominations at the Seoul International Drama Awards.

Beyond its entertaining storyline, the series also carries a hidden message about society's increasing reliance on social media and apps. Love Alarm revolves around a young school student who discovers a popular love app, which notifies her when someone who has feelings for her is within a 10-meter radius. While the show primarily focuses on the relationship between the two main characters, there is another individual with unexpressed emotions. The overwhelming popularity of the drama led to the development of a second season.

11. Lucky Romance (2016)

Currently Unavailable For Streaming

If you're searching for an adorable and amusing romance, Lucky Romance is the perfect choice. Shim Bo-nui (played by Hwang Jung-eum) finds herself falling in love with her boss Je Soo-ho (Ryu Jun-yeoi), but their love story is anything but ordinary. Originally created as a webtoon in 2014, the on-screen adaptation is just as vibrant and lively as its source material, only with a touch more excitement.

Shim Bo-nui has an intense fascination with superstitions and fortune-telling. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when a shaman reveals that in order to save her sister, she must engage in a sexual relationship with an individual born in the year of the Tiger. Fueled by unwavering faith, she embarks on a quest to find such a man and crosses paths with Je Soo-ho, a game developer who dismisses her beliefs entirely. This heartwarming and captivating K-drama revolves around the complexities of falling in love with one's boss and stands as one of the finest adaptations of a webtoon. Additionally, Ryu Jun-yeol's outstanding performance in this series earned him the prestigious Best New Actor award at the 36th MBC Drama Awards.

10. Hell Is Other People (2019)

Available To Stream On Roku

For those not seeking a romantic K-drama but rather a thrilling ride full of suspense and fright, Hell is Other People is a must-watch. Considered one of the finest K-dramas based on webtoons, it is also known as "Strangers from Hell." Created by the talented Kim Yong-Ki, this gripping series has garnered critical acclaim and even earned the prestigious Grand Prize at the Cable TV Broadcasting Awards.

The story revolves around Yoon Jon-Woo (played by Im Si-wan), a young man in his twenties who relocates to Seoul for a new job opportunity. Set in a run-down apartment, Yoon Jon-Woo shares the bathroom and kitchen with fellow residents, which gradually leads to unsettling events that fill him with suspicion and fear. Particularly unsettling is Seo Moon-jo (portrayed by Lee Dong-wook), a bone-chilling dentist who adds to Yoon Jon-Woo's growing paranoia.

9. The Uncanny Counter (2020)

Available To Stream On Netflix

The action sequences, heartfelt story, and heartbreaking scenes of Netflix's The Uncanny Counter had subscribers completely captivated. Based on the webtoon Amazing Rumor by Jang Yi, this K-drama is considered one of the best adaptations. The talented cast, including Yeom Hye-ran who won a Best Supporting Actress award at the 57th Baeksang Arts Awards, has received well-deserved recognition.

So Mun (Jo Byeong-kyu), a teenager confined to a wheelchair, embarks on a thrilling journey by joining the Counters. This group consists of individuals endowed with extraordinary powers, dedicated to combating escaped evil spirits from the afterlife. Through unexpected connections and shared experiences, these Counters not only confront their own traumatic histories but also provide solace to one another.

8. Backstreet Rookie (2020)

Available To Stream On Netflix, Rakuten Viki, And Amazon Prime Video

Debuting in 2020, Backstreet Rookie is a rom-com that stands out as one of the finest K-dramas adapted from webtoons. The series draws inspiration from the popular webtoon Convenience Store Saet-byul, which was penned by the talented Hwalhwasan in 2016 and 2017. With its intriguing plot twists and turns, the show effortlessly captures viewers' attention and becomes a must-watch. Its engrossing narrative and endearing characters have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the drama's impressive achievement of eight nominations and two wins at the SBS Drama Awards and 7th APAN Star Awards.

7. All Of Us Are Dead (2022)

The show commences with a prologue featuring Choi Dae-Hyun (played by Ji Chang-Wook) strolling down an alley where he encounters three teenage girls. One of the girls becomes infatuated with him and even plants a kiss on him. The K-drama then takes a leap in time, advancing three years into the future. Dae-Hyun, now responsible for managing his family's convenience store, finds himself in need of a part-time employee. In an unexpected turn of events, the very same teenage girl from three years ago applies for the job.

Available To Stream On Netflix

The K-drama/horror Netflix series All of Us are Dead is widely known, but little is known about its source material, the eponymous NAVER webtoon by Joo Dong-geun. All of Us are Dead combines thrilling jump scares and intense action sequences with a compelling storyline. Its success is evident from its renewal for a second season and its status as one of the best K-dramas based on webtoons. The series has garnered critical acclaim and received nominations for multiple awards, including two wins at prestigious events such as the 8th APAN Star Awards, 58th Baeksang Arts Awards, and 1st Blue Dragon Series Awards.

Set in Hyosan High School, All of Us Are Dead centers around the students of class 2-5, who find themselves in a dire situation after a failed science experiment triggers a zombie outbreak. Both teachers and students are affected by the virus, turning the once-ordinary high school into a perilous battleground for ravenous zombies. What sets All of Us are Dead apart from other zombie shows is its exploration of the origins of the virus, revealing a surprising twist that must be witnessed to be fully appreciated.

All Of Us Are Dead

Cast Park Solomon, Cho Yi-hyun, Park Ji-hoo, Yoo In-soo, Yoon Chan-youngGenres Fantasy, Drama, ActionRating TV-MADistributor Netflix

6. Cheese In The Trap (2016)

Available To Stream On Rakuten Viki, Tubi, Plex, The Roku Channel, AsianCrush, And FreeVee

Although Cheese in the Trap initially premiered in 2016, it has gained a reputation as a beloved K-drama, particularly for those seeking an engaging love triangle. The original source material for this adaptation was a webtoon created by the talented user Soonkki. This intriguing webtoon, centered around a love triangle, quickly garnered a dedicated fan base and caught the attention of producers who transformed it into a captivating K-drama. It comes as no surprise that Cheese in the Trap has been recognized as one of the finest K-dramas based on webtoons, receiving an astounding 13 award nominations and securing victories in four categories at esteemed events like the Korean Cable TV Awards, 52nd Baeksang Arts Awards, and 1st Asia Artist Awards.

The webtoon

5. Hellbound (2021)

was released from 2010 to 2016. When the K-drama was being filmed, the webtoon did not yet have a description of its ending since it was still incomplete. The story revolves around a university student whose life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters the wealthy and popular student on campus. As she begins to question his true intentions, the focus on the complex relationship between Yoo Jung and Hong Seol is what captivates viewers in Cheese in the Trap. The intriguing mix of Jung's manipulative behavior within their relationship is both infuriating and captivating.

Available To Stream On Netflix

Yeon Sang-ho, the director of Hellbound and the creator of its original webtoon of the same name, has produced a remarkable K-drama with supernatural elements. Upon its release on Netflix, the series quickly gained global popularity and became the most-watched Netflix series in the world the following day, surpassing even Squid Game. While fans eagerly anticipate the second season of Hellbound, the thrilling first season alone garnered 14 award nominations and secured four wins, including one for actress Kim Shin-rok.

4. Sweet Home (2020)

Hellbound takes place in 2022, when an enigmatic angel descends upon South Korea, delivering ominous predictions. These prophecies designate certain individuals to be condemned to hell at an indeterminate point in the future, spanning from mere moments to several years. Three supernatural entities are tasked with eviscerating and incinerating the bodies of those destined for hell. Amidst this turmoil, two factions—the New Truth Society and the Arrowhead group—manipulate people's fears to assert their own dominance.

4. Sweet Home (2020)

Available To Stream On Netflix

Sweet Home quickly became a popular K-drama on Netflix in 2020 and is widely regarded as one of the best adaptations of a webtoon. It captivated fans with its enthralling storyline of a possible apocalypse and the terrifying presence of monsters. Initially a Naver webtoon by Kim Kan-Bi and Hwang Young-Chan, this apocalyptic horror series gained acclaim for its intense action sequences and impressive cinematography. Over the course of its three seasons, Sweet Home garnered 18 award nominations and secured six victories.

In Sweet Home, the residents of a building suddenly find themselves trapped one morning. Unaware of the chaos unfolding outside, they soon discover that humans are transforming into grotesque and insatiable monsters. Similar to the hit series Squid Game, these tenants must fight not only for their survival against the external threat, but also against the potential transformation happening within themselves. The constant suspense and fear of anyone turning into a monster at any given moment ensures that the tension in Sweet Home never truly subsides.

Sweet Home

Release Date December 18, 2020Cast Song Kang, Lee Jin-Wook, Lee Si-young, Lee Do-Hyun, Park GyuyoungSeasons 2

3. My ID Is Gangnam Beauty (2018)

Available To Stream On Netflix And Rakuten Viki

My ID is Gangnam Beauty is a K-drama that encompasses various themes such as romance, self-doubt, vengeance, and conflict. It stands out as one of the finest K-dramas adapted from a webtoon. Created by Gi Meng-Gi, this webtoon revolves around a college student who undergoes a life-altering transformation. In Korean culture, "Gangnam beauty" is a disparaging term aimed at women who have undergone cosmetic surgery. Gangnam, located in Seoul, is renowned for its renowned surgical clinics.

Featuring K-pop idol Cha Eun-woo, the show revolves around Kang Mi-rae (Im Soo-hyang), a college student who undergoes plastic surgery to address the ridicule she faced in her youth due to her appearance. However, she becomes the subject of hurtful comments once again, this time being labeled as a "Gangnam beauty." The story focuses on her journey of self-discovery, building self-esteem, and finding love as she reconnects with a childhood classmate. In addition to challenging societal beauty standards, My ID is Gangnam Beauty has received critical acclaim and has been honored with six awards, including the 26th Korean Culture and Entertainment Awards.

2. What's Wrong With Secretary Kim? (2018)

Available To Stream On Rakuten Viki And Hulu

What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? is considered one of the top K-dramas, based on webtoons, known for its sizzling romantic chemistry between attractive lead characters and impeccable comedic talent. In addition to the show's steamy kissing scenes, both the K-drama and the webtoon it's adapted from have gained significant attention. The webtoon, created by Kim Myeong-Mi, and the K-drama share a similar storyline. This romantic K-drama has won six awards during its 16-episode run, receiving recognition from prestigious events such as the Korean Drama Awards, the APAN Star Awards, and the Annual Soompi Awards.

What's Wrong with Secretary Kim revolves around Lee Young-joon (Park Seo-joon), the serious, conceited, yet strikingly handsome Vice President of a major corporation, who faces the possibility of losing his long-term and reliable secretary. When he learns of her resignation, he realizes how indispensable she is in his life. This realization leads him on a rollercoaster of emotions, including attraction, deep feelings, and intense jealousy towards her. As their journey progresses, they fall in love and discover that they have known each other all along.

1. Extraordinary You (2019)

Available To Stream On Rakuten Viki And Kocowa

Released in 2019, Extraordinary You is a captivating teen-love K-drama with a unique title different from its original webtoon, July Found by Chance. Published in 2018, both the drama and webtoon boast enthralling teen drama storylines. Considered one of the finest K-dramas based on webtoons, Extraordinary You has garnered immense praise, winning seven prestigious awards, including the Outstanding Korean Drama award at the Seoul Drama Awards. The series' remarkable storyline and relatable characters have contributed to its remarkable success.

Eun Dan-oh stumbles upon the realization that her existence and the reality she inhabits are merely elements of a fantastical world depicted in a comic. However, to her dismay, the comic artist crafts a lackluster destiny for her wherein she is compelled to be betrothed to an individual who harbors deep animosity towards her, ultimately leading to her untimely demise. In a captivating twist of events in this women-centric K-drama narrative, she takes charge and takes it upon herself to pen her own tale, with the ultimate goal of finding genuine love. Nonetheless, this pursuit comes with a price, heightening audience anticipation, particularly as it marks the acclaimed K-pop idol's inaugural foray into a leading role in a remarkable drama.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the growing trend of K-dramas based on webtoons. Webtoons offer a diverse range of genres and captivating storylines, making them a valuable resource for K-drama storytelling.

I appreciate that some K-dramas stay true to the original webtoon, while others diverge creatively to enhance the narrative. This allows for a fresh and exciting take on familiar stories. Overall, I believe that the combination of webtoons and K-dramas is a winning formula that will continue to produce entertaining and engaging content for audiences around the world.