When we first started loving K-dramas, I know there are times when we get confused with all the terms such as “webtoon.” But what exactly is a webtoon? Well, it’s a type of digital comic that started in South Korea and is made to be read on smartphones.
Webtoons are extremely popular in South Korea, with countless titles available. Did you know that many of the K-dramas you love were actually based on webtoons? This just goes to show how influential and popular they are!
“Weak Hero Class 1“
You’re really missing out if you haven’t watched “Weak Hero Class 1,” one of the best K-dramas of 2022! It’s actually based on a 2018 popular webtoon called “Weak Hero” by Seopass and illustrated by Kim Jin Seok (Razen) and serves as a prequel to the original series.
What makes “Weak Hero Class 1” such a standout drama is the fantastic storytelling that takes place in a high school setting. Our hero is a clever and brainy student who uses his wits to stand up against violence, both inside and outside the school. Park Ji Hoon’s performance really set the bar high for young idol actors, and the series got better with every one of its six episodes.
“Taxi Driver“
One of the best K-dramas to ever exist is Lee Je Hoon’s “Taxi Driver” which is based on the webtoon “The Deluxe Taxi” by Carlos and Lee Jae Jin. The first season premiered on SBS in 2021, and the second season just came out this year!
“Taxi Driver” is definitely one of the best K-dramas out there, thanks to its unique concept of a taxi company that seeks revenge on behalf of its clients. The show is non-stop action and excitement, with each episode featuring timely and relevant cases and stories. You’ll be both entertained and educated while watching this incredible drama!
“Extra-ordinary You“
If you’re a fan of rom-com, you’ll be pleased to know that the genre is just as popular in webtoons. And “Extra-ordinary You” was no exception! This drama is actually based on a webtoon called “July Found by Chance,” which was first published in January 2018. The show aired in November 2021 and was a big hit with viewers.
We’re all familiar with the fun and quirky high school genre, right? And that’s exactly what makes this drama so charming! The concept is truly unique, as we’re watching an extra character inside a webtoon who’s supposed to die but wants to defy her fate. Kim Hye Yoon did an amazing job portraying Eun Dan Oh, and her chemistry with SF9’s Rowoon was absolutely delightful!
“Kingdom”
What sets this webtoon apart from the others is its unique blend of the fantasy genre with zombies, all set against the backdrop of the Joseon dynasty. The drama is based on the webtoon series “The Kingdom of the Gods” by Kim Eun-Hee and illustrated by Yang Kyung Il, and the drama adaptation first premiered in 2019.
This show quickly became a worldwide sensation thanks to its incredible storytelling. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as you watch the characters fight for their lives against the zombies, the adrenaline rush keeping you hooked throughout every episode. “Kingdom” is definitely a drama you won’t want to miss!
“The Forbidden Marriage“
Historical dramas are often quite serious, but “The Forbidden Marriage” breaks the mold by staying true to its rom-com genre. The drama is actually based on a web novel by screenwriter Chun Ji Hye, which was later adapted into a webtoon. What’s unique about this K-drama is that the original webtoon writer is actually part of the production team!
One of the things that makes this show so hilarious is the excellent comedic timing of its leads, Kim Young Dae and Park Ju Hyun. The story itself is quite lighthearted, as it revolves around a shaman who pretends to be possessed by the spirit of a late crown princess in order to break the king’s marriage ban, which has been in place for seven years. “The Forbidden Marriage” is definitely a historical drama unlike any other!
“Princess Hours“
Did you know that the classic K-drama that paved the way for many other Korean dramas, “Princess Hours,” was actually based on a webtoon? The manhwa, “Goong,” written by Park So Hee, served as the inspiration for this romantic comedy series. The drama premiered in January 2006 and is still beloved by many fans today.
Set in an alternate South Korea where the monarchy still exists, “Princess Hours” follows the story of Crown Prince Jun Ji Hoon and high school student Yoon Eun Hye. This show has a unique charm that can never be replicated by any other drama.
“The Tale of Nokdu“
Another historical rom-com on the list! Kim So Hyun, Jang Dong Yoon, and Kang Tae Oh’s “The Tale of Nokdu” is also based on the popular 2014 webtoon by Hye Jin Yang. The series first premiered in 2019.
“The Tale of Nokdu” is a delightful historical rom-com that stands out from the rest, thanks to its unique plot. The story revolves around a man who disguises himself as a woman to enter a female-only village and a woman who’s determined to seek revenge without becoming a gisaeng.
“D.P.”
“D.P.” is a must-watch drama that resonates with many South Koreans due to its timely and relatable script. Starring Jung Hae In and Koo Kyo Hwan, the show is based on the popular webtoon “D.P Dog’s Day” by Kim Bo Tong, and the first season premiered in 2021 with the second season set to release in 2023.
What sets this drama apart is its honest depiction of the military’s shortcomings and the outstanding performances of its cast. It has received critical acclaim, winning awards such as the prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards and Blue Dragon Series Awards, and is widely regarded as Jung Hae In’s best work to date.
By the way, there’s an ongoing historical drama right now which is also based on a webtoon and it’s Woo Do Hwan, WJSN Bona, and Cha Hak Yeon’s “Joseon Attorney: A Morality!”
With just 4 episodes this drama is already giving the feels of a historical/action/comedy/romance all in one. Let’s all watch this show by subscribing to KOCOWA+!
