Top 10 Must-Read Action Manhwa for Manga Enthusiasts

Discover the thrilling world of Korean webtoons with the action-packed genre of action manhwa. This fast-growing trend is captivating readers worldwide with its gripping plots, impressive artwork, and dynamic characters. Packed with epic fight scenes, high-stakes adventures, and charismatic heroes, action manhwa is the perfect entry point for anyone new to the world of manhwa. To help you get started, we've put together a list of the top 9 action manhwas that you won't want to miss.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion and is not ranked in any particular order.

Top 9 must-read action manhwa for thrill seekers

1. Solo Leveling

Cover of 'Solo Leveling'by Chugong (Image via D&C Media and Yen Press)

Solo Leveling tells the tale of Sung Jin-Woo, a hunter with a low rank who obtains extraordinary power following a near-death encounter in a challenging dungeon. Determined to rise to become the most powerful S-rank hunter in the world, he sets out on a heroic quest.

Boasting exceptional fight scenes, sleek artwork, and exhilarating moments, Solo Leveling has transformed the action manhwa genre. The seamless execution of the plot and pacing makes it a captivating read that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide, solidifying its status as one of the most beloved action manhwas.

2. The Breaker

Once you see Sung Jin-Woo skillfully navigating through waves of adversaries, it's impossible not to be captivated. So, for heart-stopping action set in an electrifying story, this masterpiece is the ultimate choice.

2. The Breaker

Cover of 'The Breaker' by Jeon Geuk-jin and Park Jin-hwan, (Image by Ablaze)

The Breaker tells the tale of Yi Shioon, a regular high school student who unwittingly becomes involved in the perilous world of martial arts. With the guidance of his enigmatic and formidable teacher, Chun-Woo Han, Shioon must swiftly acquire new skills in order to safeguard himself and those he holds dear.

The Breaker is a standout contemporary Korean martial arts action manhwa with beautifully detailed fight sequences and a gripping storyline. While the pacing lags in the sequel, The Breaker: New Waves, the series as a whole is an exhilarating action manhwa that explores themes of honor and justice. If you're looking for impressive displays of martial arts on the page, this classic action manhwa will surely keep you on the edge of your seat.

3. Tower of God

Cover of 'Tower of God' by S.I.U.(Image by Young Com)

In Tower of God, the story follows Bam, a young boy held captive beneath a enigmatic tower. In order to reach the sky and move upward, Bam must navigate through the perilous challenges and cutthroat contests within the tower. Alongside his allies, he uncovers the hidden truths of his own history and the secrets of the tower itself. Drawing from the imagery of role-playing games, Tower of God portrays intense battles with impressive special effects. With its rich lore and compelling characters, Tower of God effectively delivers high-energy shonen-style action in manhwa form.

And that’s not even mentioning the mind games and political intrigue layered underneath. For a complex action manhwa woven with mysteries, this is a must-read.

4. The God of High School

Imageframe's depiction of the cover for 'The God of High School' by Yongje Park.

The God of High School commences with an exhilarating national tournament that unites the top teenage fighters in South Korea. Talented Taekwondo expert Jin Mo-Ri quickly realizes that there is more on the line than just the championship title.

The God of High School brings martial arts sequences to life with vivid detail and colors that practically leap off the page. The fight choreography and creative powers match shonen heights at times, delivering exhilarating action that never disappoints. While the overarching plot may get muddled, the series offers spunky comedy, hard-hitting throws, lovable characters, and an epic mythological fight for the universe. With thrilling stakes throughout, The God of High School deserves its legendary status.

5. Gosu

Cover of 'Gosu' by Giun Ryu and Mun Jeong Hoo (Image via Naver Webtoon)

Gosu is set in ancient Korea and follows the story of Yong, a young martial artist on a quest for revenge against the Gwi Guild of the Murim organization. Despite honing his skills, Yong finds vengeance to be a difficult challenge. The manhwa excels in delivering thrilling action scenes featuring sword-wielding fighters and incorporates Chinese cultivation influences for a unique blend. With its visually stunning wuxia-inspired direction, Gosu is a highly binge-worthy action series.

6. The Boxer

Amidst the relentless and gruesome battles, Gosu intricately weaves a tale of passionate emotion, exploring the enduring legacies that are forged and the recurring patterns of violence. This action-packed manhwa is an exceptional blend of thrilling action and heartfelt storytelling, making it a compelling must-read.

The boxer, Jung Ji-Hoon's book cover, is out now (Image via Daewon C.I. and Yen Press)

Once a rising star in the boxing world, Yu's career takes a nosedive when he is wrongly accused of match-fixing. After serving time in prison, he is determined to make a comeback and reclaim his place in the sport he is passionate about.

The Boxer is a manhwa that is gritty, emotional, and triumphant all at once. It stands out with its evocative storytelling and imagery, pulling no punches in showcasing the physical and mental toll of boxing on its characters. The fights feel grounded with their depiction of real boxing techniques. Most of all, it excels at capturing the compelling journey of an underdog chasing redemption against all odds, inspiring both sports fans and action fans to root for Yu.

7. Legend of the Northern Blade

Cover of 'Legend of the Northern Blade' by Hae-Min and Woo-Ga (Image by Seoul Media Comics)

During a time when martial arts clans battled for supremacy, the once-mighty Northern Blade clan is on the verge of ruin due to a treacherous conspiracy. Following the massacre of his clan, the sole heir Jun In, who is unaware of his heritage, is the only survivor. However, everything changes when he discovers his true identity.

Renowned for breathing new life into the murim genre, Legend of the Northern Blade captivates audiences with its gripping action and a world inspired by Chinese cultivation. Jun In's exceptional swordsmanship is especially notable for its dynamic grace. The storyline itself is compelling, enriched by themes of redemption and Jun In's magnetic personality.

For action manhwa readers, Legend of the Northern Blade is a modern classic—one single glimpse of Jun In’s righteous fury is enough to get engrossed.

8. Jungle Juice

The cover of 'Jungle Juice' by Hyeong Eun (Image via WEBTOON)

This supernatural action series delves into a world under threat from the sudden emergence of dangerous dimensional beings known as Jam. Humanity's hopes for defense rest on hunters endowed with special abilities, and Jungle Juice centers on the journey of hunter trainees at Cube 1, chronicling their struggles and eventual growth.

Jungle Juice, led by a captivating cast, delivers a blend of personal drama and comedy alongside thrilling battles. From summoning weapons to transforming body parts, the dynamic abilities and creature designs are truly impressive.

With its exceptional worldbuilding and imaginative vision, Jungle Juice stands out as a heartwarming action manhwa.

9. Hellper

Cover of 'Hellper' by SAKT (Image via WEBTOON)

After an unexpected death, Haram is transformed into a mischievous demon. Considered an illegal extra soul by authorities, Haram becomes embroiled in their pursuit to capture him.

Hellper is a rare Korean urban fantasy action manhwa that incorporates social satire into its world teeming with supernatural creatures such as death gods, vampires, and demons. Combined with its eccentric art style, the series offers a truly unique reading experience. Despite occasional wandering plots, Hellper stands out with its irreverent tone and humor.

So for a fresh perspective not typically seen in manhwa, take a chance with this quirky action manhwa series.

Conclusion

In summary, manhwa remains popular worldwide as Korean artists continue to push boundaries within the genre. Action-packed manhwa series deliver intense fight sequences and thrilling excitement without holding back. If you're in the mood for epic weapons, martial arts battles, or captivating hero's journeys, our recommendations will steer you in the right direction.

Only a few series can open the door to the captivating world of manhwa reading. Once you dive into one of these action-packed stories, going back may be difficult, especially with compelling protagonists like Sung Jin-Woo and Jun In.

Editor's P/S

As a hard fan of action manhwa, I am thrilled to see the genre gaining recognition and popularity worldwide. The top 10 must-read action manhwa listed in the article offer a diverse range of stories, from the epic Solo Leveling to the intense Tower of God. Each of these webtoons has captivated me with its gripping plots, impressive artwork, and dynamic characters.

Solo Leveling, in particular, stands out as a masterpiece of the action manhwa genre. The story of Sung Jin-Woo's rise from a low-ranked hunter to the most powerful S-rank hunter is nothing short of exhilarating. The fight scenes are exceptionally well-executed, and the artwork is sleek and visually stunning. The pacing of the plot is also commendable, making it a captivating read that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.