manhwas

Manhwa refers to Korean comics and graphic novels created by Korean artists, produced in South Korea and distributed internationally. The term distinguishes Korean comics from Japanese manga, and in English usage it often refers to Korean webtoon or digital formats as well as traditional print works. Manhwa spans a wide range of genres and is published in magazines, books, and online platforms.

Historically, modern manhwa began to take shape in the early 20th century and evolved through serialized publications in newspapers and magazines after the Korean War. From the 1990s onward, digital distribution expanded the reach of manhwa, culminating in the rise of webtoons in the 2010s. Webtoons are typically designed for vertical scrolling on smartphones, often published on dedicated platforms and released on a weekly or episodic schedule.

Formats and reading conventions vary. Traditional print manhwa were commonly read in a right-to-left format, similar to manga, while digital and translated works may adopt left-to-right presentation. Webtoons emphasize a vertical reading experience and frequently utilize a chapters-and-stories structure that supports long-form, ongoing series as well as stand-alone episodes. Genres include action, fantasy, romance, horror, slice of life, and campus drama, appealing to diverse age groups.

Industry and distribution have shifted toward digital platforms, with major webtoon portals such as LINE Webtoon and KakaoPage hosting a large share of popular titles. Revenue models commonly combine advertising, subscriptions, and microtransactions. Many popular manhwas have inspired adaptations in television, film, and other media, contributing to the global recognition of Korean comics.

Notable examples of manhwa and webtoons include Tower of God, The God of High School, Noblesse, The Breaker, Cheese in the Trap, and Solo Leveling, which illustrate the international reach and stylistic variety of the medium.