Top 10 Manhwa Featuring Overpowered Protagonists

Article Key Points

Manhwa often features overpowered main characters who possess abilities far beyond their peers, creating thrilling battles and captivating stories.

The concept of overpowering characters goes beyond just the protagonist, as multiple central characters can possess overwhelming power, enhancing the reader's interest. Immensely popular manhwa series such as "Existence," "Player," and "The Great Mage Returns After 4,000 Years" delve into themes of power, revenge, and fantasy, making them essential reads for genre enthusiasts.

Manhwa, the Korean equivalent of manga, offers a wide range of genres that have made the industry famous. Among these genres, the subgenre of 'overpowered main character' stands out as particularly appealing. These characters possess abilities, strengths, and skills that far surpass their peers, making them formidable in their respective stories.

The top manhwa that feature these types of characters often succeed in effectively combining action with character-driven narratives centered around power dynamics and their consequences. They create captivating tales in which the overpowered central characters become the focus of thrilling battles and provide exhilarating entertainment. What's even more exciting is that the overpowered trope is not restricted to just the protagonist; there can be multiple overpowered central characters in a manhwa, making it an even more engaging read. Below are some of the best manhwa that incorporate the overpowered trope.

10. Existence

Lee Ja-In

Author:

Gwang-Jin, Kim Kyungjun

Other Genres:

Action, Drama

Release Years:

In 2022, the concept of 'overpowered' is exemplified in the two central characters of Existence. The story revolves around Lee Ja-In, the protagonist, who has experienced numerous lifetimes as various forms of energy and now finds himself reincarnated as a human. What sets him apart is his realization that he possesses the extraordinary abilities from each of his previous lives.

9. Player

What is the reason behind his ability to retain these skills? He can only reach one conclusion: the complete eradication of the human race. Yet, after experiencing the intricacies of human life, Lee Ja-In becomes uncertain about the true meaning of his existence.

Heo Seojin

Author:

Jong-seok PARK, Hyeon-jun OH

Other Genres:

Action, Adventure

Release Years:

2020–

Player is an Isekai manhwa that follows Heo Seojin, an outcast at his school regarded as a loser even by his supposed friends. To escape the hardships of reality, he immerses himself in webtoons, envisioning himself as a courageous hero fighting for justice.

But Seojin's life is on the verge of an exciting transformation when he casually remarks about the webtoon Player. Little does he know that this simple comment will thrust him into the very core of the webtoon's world.

8. The Great Mage Returns After 4,000 Years

Frey Blake

Author:

Nakasan, Redice Studio

Other Genres:

Action, Fantasy

Release Years:

In 2020, The Great Mage Returns After 4000 Years takes readers on a captivating journey through a reincarnation fantasy world. The story revolves around the protagonist, Lucas Traumen, who was once the most powerful mage to have ever lived four thousand years ago. However, Lucas is reincarnated into the body of Frey Blake, a member of the House of Blake who is regarded as a failure and a disgrace. Now known as Frey Blake, Lucas seizes the opportunity for vengeance against the Demigods and aims to prevent the imminent destruction of humanity.

Filled with a deep-seated loathing towards the Demigods who once posed a grave threat to humanity, Lucas Traumen, known as Frey, is resolute in his quest to surpass their power and avert the imminent devastation orchestrated by Lord and his fellow demigods.

7. Second Life Ranker

Cha Yeon-Woo

Author:

Do-yeon SA, Nong-nong

Other Genres:

Action, Fantasy

Release Years:

2019–

Second Life Ranker is an epic narrative of vengeance, authority, and thrilling escapades. The captivating plot revolves around Cha Yeon-Woo, who stumbles upon the tragic demise of his younger twin sibling upon his return from military duty.

Armed with the cryptic evidence of his brother's murder within a pocket watch, Yeon-Woo embarks on a quest to join The Obelisk, famously known as the Tower – a enigmatic structure that serves as a passage to alternate realms and the very site where his brother met his untimely end. Fueled by an intense fury, Yeon-Woo resolves to ascend the Tower, not only to hunt down his brother's assailant but also to rise as the foremost contender in this treacherous game.

6. Nano Machine

Cheon Yeon-Woo

Author:

Hanjungwolya, Geumgangbulgoe

Other Genres:

Action, Fantasy

Release Years:

In 2020, Nano Machine tells the story of Cheon Yeon-Woo, an illegitimate child and a potential successor to the Demonic Cult leader. Despite facing constant criticism and danger from his relatives, Yeon-Woo's life appeared to be perpetually bound by servitude and submission.

All that changes, though, is the moment his descendant from the future pays him a visit- an encounter that will dramatically transform his life and propel him towards becoming the most exceptional martial artist of his time.

5. Legend Of The Northern Blade

Jin Mu-Won

Author:

Hae-Min, Woogack

Other Genres:

Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Release Years:

2019–

The Legend of The Northern Blade series is a murim manhwa that revolves around revenge, martial arts, and war. It tells the story of Jin Mu-Won, the fifth-generation leader of the Northern Heavenly Sect. The sect was established during a turbulent and violent period with the sole purpose of protecting the Central Plains. Under the guidance of Jin's father, Jin Kwan-Ho, the world experienced a period of peace.

However, as time went on, conspiracies arose against the Northern Heavenly Sect, ultimately leading to its destruction except for one survivor: Jin Mu-Won. Witnessing the downfall of his sect and becoming the last remaining member, Mu-Won patiently waits, concealing his martial abilities and training in secrecy. When the time is right, he will embark on his quest for revenge and cause a seismic shift in the martial world.

4. Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

Kim Dokja

Author:

Singsyong, Sleepy-C

Other Genres:

Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Release Years:

Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint is a gripping apocalyptic dark fantasy manhwa that combines elements of survival with references to Korean lore and legends. The story revolves around Kim Dokja, an ordinary individual who happens to be the only reader of the novel Ways of Survival, which was written and released more than ten years ago.

All is well until the world is suddenly plunged into the premise of the novel Ways of Survival, making Kim Dokja's knowledge of the novel crucial for his survival. With his unparalleled knowledge, he swiftly becomes the focal point of unexpected allure and will be the sole reason behind the deviation from the novel's original plot. Resolute in his resolve to survive alongside his allies, Kim Dokja will surpass the predetermined confines of his newfound reality.

3. Noblesse

Cadiz Etrama Di Raizel

Author:

Je-Ho SON, Gwang-Su LEE

Other Genres:

Action, Comedy, Fantasy

Release Years:

2007–2019

The manga series Noblesse revolves around the character Cadiz Etrama Di Raizel, also known as the most powerful vampire, the Noblesse. The story beautifully blends elements of fantasy and everyday life, creating a captivating and unique narrative. After a thousand-year slumber, Raizel awakens to find that the world has drastically changed.

Upon reuniting with his devoted servant, Frankenstein, and experiencing a semblance of normalcy, Raizel is determined to preserve his newfound life and will go to great lengths to ensure its safety, regardless of his adversaries. As the Noblesse, he must safeguard the delicate equilibrium between regular society and the supernatural, defending against those who threaten to disrupt this balance.

2. Solo Leveling

Sung Jin-Woo

Author:

Chugong

Other Genres:

Action, Fantasy

Release Years:

From 2018 to 2023, Solo Leveling portrays the journey of the weakest character transforming into the most powerful. Taking place in a fictional Earth, the story unfolds as a Gate linking to the world of monsters emerges, intertwining the two realms. As a result, select individuals among humanity acquire unique abilities and strength, turning them into hunters.

1. God Of High School

The narrative centers around Sung Jin-Woo, a renowned E-rank hunter who is considered the weakest among all hunters. However, Jin-Woo's status as the least powerful hunter is about to undergo a drastic transformation following his miraculous survival in a truly terrifying dungeon expedition. By some extraordinary stroke of luck, Jin-Woo is chosen by a enigmatic entity known as the 'System' and bestowed with an extraordinary ability to surpass all known limits. Empowered by his newfound skill, Jin-Woo embarks on a journey to become the mightiest hunter of all.

Jin Mori

Author:

Yong-Je Park

Other Genres:

Action, Fantasy

Release Years:

2011–2022

Situated at the pinnacle of the group, The God of High School series elevates the 'Overpowered' archetype to almost unfathomable levels by featuring not just one, but three main characters who possess unparalleled strength.

The narrative revolves around Jin Mori, a high school student and expert in Taekwondo, as he joins the God of High School tournament. Along the way, he encounters Han Daewi and Yoo Mira, two pivotal figures in the story. Together, they engage in fierce competition with the goal of becoming the next God of high school. Little do they know, this contest is merely the initial phase of a journey that exceeds the boundaries of the world itself.

Editor's P/S

1. As a fan of manhwa, I am always excited to discover new series that feature overpowered protagonists. These characters are often incredibly powerful and skilled, and their battles are always a thrill to watch. Some of my favorite manhwa with overpowered protagonists include "Existence," "Player," and "The Great Mage Returns After 4,000 Years."

2. These manhwa are all well-written and have engaging stories, but what really sets them apart is their overpowered protagonists. These characters are so powerful that they can often defeat their enemies with ease, and it's always satisfying to see them in action. If you're a fan of manhwa, I highly recommend checking out these series. You won't be disappointed.