Korean Anime – Top 10 Korean Anime You Should Know

Korean anime, also known as manhwa (for manga), has been gaining immense popularity worldwide. While most people associate anime with Japan, Korea has also contributed significantly to the world of animation. Korean anime brings unique storytelling, amazing visuals, and a distinct cultural touch that sets it apart from its Japanese counterpart. The rise of digital platforms and streaming services has made it easier for fans across the globe to access and enjoy Korean animated series.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the  top 10 Korean anime you should check out, which have captured hearts and garnered a massive fan base. Whether you’re a long-time anime lover or a newcomer to Korean animation, there’s something for everyone.

Key Points:

• Korean anime is distinct, featuring original dialogue and diverse animation styles.
• Streaming platforms have made Korean anime more accessible globally.
• Korean anime often includes deeper, culturally rich stories that resonate with fans.

What Makes Korean Anime Unique?

Korean anime sets itself apart in several ways, from its artistic style to its storytelling techniques. Most Korean animated series are deeply rooted in Korean culture, featuring traditional folklore, modern-day issues, and elements of Korean history. This offers a refreshing change from the typical Japanese animation tropes. Another standout feature of Korean anime is its strong character development and unique narrative structure.

One of the major influences of Korean anime is the ever-popular Korean webtoons (digital comics), which are adapted into animated series. These adaptations stay true to the source material while adding dynamic elements to the visual storytelling. If you are someone who enjoys anime with more emotional depth and slower pacing, then Korean anime is something you definitely should explore.

Example: Shows like The King’s Avatar have successfully bridged the gap between webtoons and anime, offering fans a beautifully animated series that remains faithful to its original webtoon roots.

Why Should You Watch Korean Anime?

There are several reasons why you should consider watching Korean anime. Firstly, it introduces you to a new genre and style of animation, distinct from what you might find in traditional Japanese anime. Korean anime often features compelling plots and well-developed characters, ensuring there’s something for everyone – whether you’re into fantasy, action, romance, or slice-of-life.

Another factor is that Korean anime can often take risks in terms of themes and subjects that aren’t commonly explored in other anime. It provides fresh perspectives on topics like technology, gaming, or social issues, which can be quite thought-provoking.

Here’s why Korean anime stands out:

• It features culturally unique stories and characters.
• It blends traditional and modern animation styles.
• It’s often a blend of webtoons and anime, offering a unique viewing experience.

Table: Reasons to Watch Korean Anime

Top 10 Korean Anime You Should Know

Here are the top 10 Korean anime that you should definitely check out:

1. The King’s Avatar

The King’s Avatar is a story about a professional esports player who is forced to retire but then decides to start anew in a different online game. It is a mix of action, strategy, and team-building that brings an exciting world of gaming to life. The beautiful animation and character-driven plot make this one of the best Korean anime out there.

Reminder: Make sure to check out the series’ intense gaming sequences and well-thought-out strategies.

2. Tower of God

Based on the popular webtoon, Tower of God is a fantasy anime filled with adventure, mystery, and incredible action scenes. The show follows a boy named Bam as he climbs the mysterious Tower of God to search for his lost friend. Each level of the tower presents new challenges, and Bam must face them head-on.

3. Noblesse

Noblesse is a supernatural action-packed anime that revolves around a powerful vampire named Raizel who wakes up after centuries of slumber. He must protect humanity from powerful enemies while discovering his own past. The show features thrilling action sequences and strong character development.

4. The God of High School

The God of High School is an action-packed anime where high school students from around Korea compete in a martial arts tournament with the winner being crowned the “God of High School.” The anime offers thrilling fights, captivating characters, and exciting world-building.

5. Lezhin Comics’ Series (Various)*

Lezhin Comics offers several incredible series that have been turned into anime. These series are primarily romantic, dramatic, or action-packed, offering something for everyone. Titles such as Mister Cupid’s Last Wish and A Guy Like You stand out for their diverse storytelling.

Note: Many of these anime are based on webtoons available on Lezhin, so if you enjoy one, you might want to explore more of their works.

6. Yumi’s Cells

A unique and fun take on romantic comedy, Yumi’s Cells explores the life of an ordinary office worker named Yumi and her various emotions and thoughts, represented by small cells in her brain. It’s a blend of cute animation and quirky humor, making it a standout Korean anime.

7. God of Martial Arts

Set in a world where martial arts and fantasy elements collide, God of Martial Arts follows the story of a martial artist who must rise to the top in a brutal and competitive world. The intense action and fight scenes make this a must-watch for fans of action-packed anime.

8. The Secret of the Princess

This fantasy-adventure anime follows a young girl who discovers she is the secret heir to a kingdom. With the help of a group of unlikely friends, she must navigate royal intrigue, dangerous enemies, and a hidden magical world.

9. Demon King Daimao

Demon King Daimao is an anime that blends dark fantasy and comedy. The story revolves around a young man named Akuto Sai, who is prophesied to become the Demon King. As he tries to fight his fate, he is surrounded by chaos, dark forces, and plenty of action.

10. Hero Mask

In Hero Mask, the line between human and mask is blurred, creating a mysterious and thrilling crime drama. The story follows detective James Blood as he investigates a strange conspiracy involving masks that give people enhanced abilities. The anime mixes detective work with science fiction.

Table: Comparison of Top Korean Anime

Conclusion

In conclusion, Korean anime offers a diverse range of genres, each with its own unique style and storytelling approach. From epic fantasy worlds to thrilling action sequences, these shows provide viewers with a fresh and engaging anime experience. Whether you’re into gaming, martial arts, or romance, there’s a Korean anime for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking for something different from the usual Japanese anime, Korean anime offers a great alternative with its own distinct charm and depth. These top 10 Korean anime are only the beginning of the incredible stories and amazing visuals awaiting you in the world of Korean animation.

FAQ’s

1. What is the difference between Korean anime and Japanese anime?
   Korean anime often features unique storytelling, cultural elements, and adaptations from webtoons. Japanese anime typically has its roots in manga and follows different artistic styles.
2. Are Korean anime available on streaming platforms?
   Yes, many Korean anime are available on popular streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, and others.
3. Can I watch Korean anime in English?
   Most Korean anime have English subtitles available, and some may have dubbed versions as well.
4. What genre of Korean anime is the most popular?
   Action, fantasy, and esports-related anime tend to be the most popular in Korea, with many fans enjoying the intense battles and adventure elements.
5. Are Korean anime based on manhwa?
   Yes, many popular Korean anime are adaptations of webtoons (manhwa), which are digital comics that often get turned into animated series.