Korean digital comics have taken the global storytelling scene by storm, attracting millions of readers with their immersive plots, striking artwork, and mobile-first reading experience. From romance and fantasy to action and psychological thrillers, these vertically scrolling comics offer something for every type of reader. In this guide, we’ll explore the most reliable legal platforms for reading Korean comics in English, covering both free and paid options, and break down what each service does best. We’ll also showcase 18 standout series that have captured readers’ attention, helping you find high-quality stories whether you prefer ongoing releases or complete reads.
Best Platforms to Read Korean Webtoons & Manhwa: Overview
Below is a quick comparison of the most popular platforms to read Korean webtoons and manhwa, highlighting their core features, and pricing models.
1. Free Platforms
| Platform |
Core Features | Pricing Model |
| WEBTOON (Naver) | 🌟 Largest global webtoon platform; thousands of series across genres (Romance, Fantasy, Action, Horror); regular updates; beginner-friendly interface. | Freemium |
| Tapas | 🖌 Mix of Korean webtoons and original comics; multiple genres; free chapters available; “Ink” system unlocks premium episodes; good for casual readers. | Freemium |
2. Paid / Subscription Platforms
| Platform |
Core Features | Pricing Model |
| Manta | 📖 Subscription-based platform focused on Romance, Fantasy, and Slice-of-Life; all chapters unlocked with subscription; clean English interface; binge-friendly. | Subscription ($4.99/month) |
| Lezhin Comics | 💎 Premium platform, especially strong in Romance, Drama, BL (Boys’ Love); high-quality art and storytelling; official English translations; mature content available. | Freemium / Pay-per-chapter |
| Tappytoon | ✨ Official English translations of Korean webtoons; strong in Romance, Fantasy, BL; high-quality visuals; clean UI; regular updates. | Freemium & Subscription (Tappytoon Club) |
| Toomics | 📚 Multi-genre platform with English support; many long-running series; clean interface; subscription available for full access. | Freemium & Subscription (VIP) |
| TOPTOON | 🎨 Popular Korean webtoon platform; wide variety of genres; some English-translated content available; works often licensed to other English platforms. | Freemium & Subscription & Pay-per-chapter |
Note：
Freemium: Basic access is free, with chapters unlocked through waiting or payment.
Subscription: Monthly/annual payment for unlimited reading during the subscription period.
Pay-per-chapter: Purchase chapters individually.
Detailed Review of Each Platform
1. WEBTOON (Naver)
Official Website：https://www.webtoons.com/en/
As the Korean-originated global pioneer and largest webtoon platform, WEBTOON offers an unparalleled library and community for all genres. It's the definitive starting point for any new reader.
Core Features: Hosts both professional "Originals" and a massive "Canvas" section for user-generated content. It continuously innovates with features like short-form "Video Episodes" to bring comics to life.
Content & Audience: As the originator of the webtoon format, Korean comics are its absolute core. It is the primary overseas publishing platform for major Korean studios and the first stop for global hits. Landmark titles that defined genres, such as Tower of God, True Beauty, and Lookism, all originated here.
Price Model: Freemium. Most ongoing series are free to follow. For completed series or early access, the platform uses two main systems: the "Daily Pass" (allows one free episode unlock per 24 hours) and "Coins" for permanent unlocks. Coins are purchased in bundles (e.g., 100 Coins for $0.99, 1000 Coins for $9.99).
Key Strength: Its sheer size, constant updates, and vibrant community make it the essential hub for webtoon culture.
2. Tapas
Official Website：https://tapas.io/
Now a major hub for Korean webtoons under Korean conglomerate Kakao, Tapas is a creator-friendly platform known for its strong community and a vast library specializing in romance, fantasy-romance, and slice-of-life stories.
Core Features: Fosters deep reader-creator interaction. Its model is designed to help series hook readers immediately with bite-sized chapters.
Content & Audience: While featuring global indie creators, Tapas is a major destination for licensed Korean webtoons, especially after its acquisition by Korean conglomerate Kakao. It excels at localizing and promoting Korean romance, fantasy, and BL titles for an international audience, making series like The Beginning after the End bestselling hits overseas.
Pricing Model: Freemium. The platform operates on a "Wait Until Free" (WUF) system. Alternatively, readers can use "Ink" to unlock chapters immediately. Ink can be earned or purchased (packages range from 300 Ink for $1.99 to 12,000 Ink for $49.99). There is no site-wide subscription plan.
Key Strength: A supportive ecosystem for creators and a dedicated community for fans of romance and character-driven narratives.
3. Manta
Official Website：https://manta.net/en
A subscription-based platform dedicated to translating and distributing Korean webcomics, Manta is the leading all-you-can-read service, ideal for binge-readers who want unlimited access without per-chapter fees.
Core Features: Known as the "Netflix of webcomics". It focuses on high-quality, often romance-forward ("romantasy") original series adapted from popular novels.
Content & Audience: Manta's library is almost exclusively dedicated to Korean webcomics. It specializes in acquiring and translating popular Korean romance fantasy ("romantasy") and drama webnovels into webtoons. Flagship titles like Under the Oak Tree and I've Become a True Villainess are direct adaptations of bestselling Korean novels, catering heavily to fans of this specific niche.
Pricing Model: Tiered Subscription. Manta is primarily a subscription service with tiered plans offering different benefits. Standard Plan ($4.99/month): This subscription tier provides unlimited reading access to a library of over 300 titles. It is offered in 1-month, 3-month, and 12-month billing cycles. Premium Plan: A newer, higher tier priced at $9.99 USD per month. It includes all Standard plan benefits plus 125 Gems every month. These Gems can be used to unlock special "Gem-only" titles that are not included in the standard subscription library. This plan offers flexibility for readers who want both unlimited reading and access to premium locked content.
Key Strength: Cost-effective for voracious readers and a curated destination for premium romance fantasy webcomics.
4. Lezhin Comics
Official Website：https://www.lezhinus.com/en
A premier Korean platform renowned for its high-quality mature and BL content, Lezhin Comics is a premium destination for sophisticated, adult-oriented storytelling and art.
Core Features: Emphasizes sophisticated artwork and complex, mature storytelling. It has cultivated a dedicated niche audience.
Content & Audience : Lezhin is a giant in the Korean domestic market and its English platform directly reflects that. It is the foremost source for uncensored, high-stakes Korean BL (like Painter of the Night), mature romance, and dramatic adult webtoons. The content is authentically Korean in origin and style, catering to adults seeking more explicit themes.
Pricing Model: Hybrid (Freemium/Pay-per-chapter with VIP Option). Lezhin primarily uses a pay-per-chapter model. The first few chapters of a series are typically free. To continue, readers must spend "Coins," the platform's currency. Coins are purchased in bundles; for example, $5.99 for 240 coins (+20 bonus) or $49.99 for 2000 coins (+500 bonus), averaging about 40-50 coins per dollar. Chapters generally cost between 20 to 30 coins each. Lezhin also offers an optional VIP membership for $14.99/month, which provides 1,200 coins upfront (a better coin-to-dollar rate) and access to special coin sales.
Key Strength: The go-to platform for curated, high-stakes romance and mature BL genres, with a reputation for stylish production.
5. Tappytoon
Official Website：https://www.tappytoon.com/en/comics/discover
A digital publisher specializing in curating and licensing premium Korean hit series, Tappytoon focuses on bringing action, fantasy, and drama webtoons from major Korean studios to a global audience.
Core Features: Positions itself as the "Netflix for comics". It doesn't just license but also co-produces original comics for transmedia adaptation (film, TV, animation).
Content & Audience : Tappytoon functions as a premium curator and distributor for top-tier Korean comics. It secures exclusive English licenses for hits from major Korean publishers (like KakaoPage) that may not be on other platforms. Its selection often includes action, system-based, and epic fantasy manhwa that appeal to readers seeking the next Solo Leveling-style hit.
Pricing Model: Hybrid (Freemium & Subscription). Readers can start series for free, then either wait for daily free chapter unlocks via a "Time-Lock" system or unlock chapters immediately using purchased "Points." For a more bundled experience, users can subscribe to the "Tappytoon Club,"(approximately $4.99/month), a monthly subscription that provides benefits like free tickets and bonus points for unlocking content.
Key Strength: Access to exclusively licensed, professionally produced hits and a pipeline for adaptations.
6. Toomics
Official Website：https://toomics.com/en/
A major Korean webtoon platform with a vast library, Toomics offers a wide array of comics, with a significant portion geared towards adult readers, featuring action, thriller, and mature romance/drama genres.
Core Features: Heavily promotes its VIP subscription model for unlimited access. Content often features fast-paced, plot-driven stories.
Content & Audience (Korean Comics Focus): Toomics is a major Korean platform with a strong focus on content for adult male audiences. Its English site provides direct access to a vast library of Korean webtoons heavy on action, thrillers, and mature romance/drama, often with fast-paced plots and stylized art.
Pricing Model: Subscription-focused. Toomics encourages a subscription-based approach for full access. The platform offers a VIP Membership which, once subscribed, grants users unlimited reading access to its vast library of comics. While some episodes or series may be available for free trial, the VIP subscription is presented as the primary way to enjoy most content without restrictions
Key Strength: A vast library for readers specifically seeking plot-driven action or mature romance stories, with a subscription option for unlimited browsing.
7. TOPTOON
Official Website：https://global.toptoon.com/
A leading Korean webtoon portal with an official English site, TOPTOON is known for its high-quality artwork and diverse stories, including many popular adult webtoons from the domestic market.
Core Features: Brings an authentic, large-scale Korean webtoon portal experience to an international audience. The production quality of its originals is typically very high.
Content & Audience: TOPTOON is a leading Korean webtoon portal. Its English site is a direct window into its domestic catalog, offering a huge selection of professionally produced Korean webtoons. It is particularly renowned for its extensive collection of adult-themed (19+) comics across genres like romance, drama, and fantasy, all originating from the Korean market.
Pricing Model: Hybrid (Freemium with Subscription & Coin Purchase). TOPTOON offers several paid access methods. The first few episodes are free. To continue, users must purchase subsequent episodes using the platform's currency, following a straightforward pay-per-chapter model. Additionally, the platform provides a recurring "Premium Membership" subscription (around $17/month) , which is billed monthly, every three months, or every six months. This subscription grants access to a selection of content or provides benefits like bonus coins.
Key Strength: Direct access to a curated selection of professionally produced Korean webtoons, including titles popular in the domestic market.
How to Choose the Right Platform for You？
With so many great options available, the best platform depends entirely on your personal preferences as a reader.
1. WEBTOON (Naver) is best for beginners & casual readers seeking variety. It's the essential starting point. Its freemium model allows you to explore countless ongoing series for free. The “Daily Pass” system for completed works lets you sample classics without upfront cost. No other platform matches its sheer volume and diversity.
2. Manta is best for binge-readers who hate pay-per-chapter. Its subscription model ($4.99/month for Standard, $9.99/month for Premium with Gems) is made for you. Pay once and read its entire curated library of Korean romantasy and drama series without any extra charges. Toomics is also a strong alternative if you prefer its action/thriller-focused library under a similar VIP subscription model.
3. For Mature & BL (Boys' Love) Enthusiasts, Lezhin Comics is your wat to go. It’s the industry leader for this niche, known for stylish art and complex narratives. Be prepared for its pay-per-chapter (coin) model. Tapas is an excellent secondary platform, offering a strong selection of BL and mature romance, often with a more accessible “Wait Until Free” option.
4. If you love system-based adventures, level-up stories, epic fantasy, or palace intrigue. You want quality over quantity. Tappytoon is your best choice. It excels as a curator, licensing exclusive hits in these exact genres from major Korean publishers. Think of it as your source for the next big action or fantasy manhwa sensation.
5. If you character development and emotional stories matter most and enjoy interacting with other readers and creators, choose Tapas. Its community features and algorithm are tailored for romance, fantasy-romance, and everyday stories. The “Wait Until Free” system is forgiving for patient readers.
6. For Readers Who Want “The Korean Original Experience”, TOPTOON is best for you. Its English site is a direct window into one of Korea’s largest webtoon portals, especially for adult (19+) content across all genres.
Final Tip: Mix and Match:
Many seasoned readers use 2-3 platforms simultaneously. For example:
-
Use WEBTOON for free, mainstream variety.
-
Subscribe to Manta for unlimited binge-reading of romance.
-
Keep a Lezhin account to buy coins for the occasional premium BL or adult series.
Choose the platform that best fits your primary reading habit and budget, and don’t be afraid to explore others for their unique strengths.
Top 18 Series to Binge Now
With the best platforms at your fingertips, it's time to dive into the top 18 must-read webtoons.
1. Must-Read & Iconic Titles
If you're new to Korean webtoons and want to experience their biggest global hits, start with the “Must-Read & Iconic Titles.”
| Title | Status | Genre | Where to Read (Primary Platform) | Why Binge? |
| Solo Leveling | Completed | Action, Fantasy | Tappytoon | The global phenomenon that defined a genre. Features cinematic art and the ultimate underdog-to-overpowered progression story. |
| Omniscient Reader | Ongoing | Action, Fantasy | WEBTOON | A mind-bending meta-narrative. The sole reader of a novel must use his knowledge to survive its apocalyptic plot, full of brilliant twists. |
| Tower of God | Ongoing | Fantasy, Adventure | WEBTOON | An epic world-building classic. Follow Bam as he climbs a mysterious tower filled with tests, allies, and enemies in this long-running saga. |
| Lore Olympus | Completed | Romance, Fantasy | WEBTOON | A visually stunning and addictive modern retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth. Renowned for its unique art style and dramatic romance. |
2. Ongoing Series Worth Following
If you enjoy the excitement of weekly updates, the “Ongoing Series Worth Following” section offers plenty of great choices.
| Title | Status | Genre | Where to Read (Primary Platform) | Why Binge? |
| The World After the Fall | Ongoing | Action, Fantasy | WEBTOON | A top-tier system/apocalypse manhwa. Follow a stubborn hero who defies the world's reset, uncovering secrets in a fight for the original timeline. |
| Eleceed | Ongoing | Action, Comedy | WEBTOON | A perfect blend of superpowered battles, school life, and hilarious cat humor. Incredibly charming and consistently top-rated. |
| The Remarried Empress | Ongoing | Romance, Fantasy | WEBTOON | The ultimate regal power fantasy. Follow Empress Navier's strategic and satisfying journey of divorce, revenge, and reclaiming her crown. |
| Pick Me Up! | Ongoing | Action, Fantasy, Game | Tapas | A top-rated, cerebral survival story. A master player trapped as the weakest hero must use supreme strategy to conquer a deadly game system. |
| The Greatest Estate Developer | Ongoing | Fantasy, Comedy | WEBTOON | Hilariously innovative isekai. A civil engineer uses modern knowledge for outrageous fantasy construction and legendary facial expressions. |
| Return of the Blossoming Blade | Ongoing | Action, Fantasy (Murim) | WEBTOON | A top-tier martial arts (Murim) tale. Hilarious and action-packed, following a legendary swordsman's return to rebuild his sect. |
3. Completed Classics
If you prefer to binge a complete story from start to finish, check out the “Completed Classics.”
| Title | Status | Genre | Where to Read (Primary Platform) | Why Binge? |
| Who Made Me a Princess | Completed | Fantasy, Romance, Drama | Tappytoon | The beloved classic of the “reincarnated-as-the-villainess” genre. A heartfelt struggle to win a cold father's love and change a doomed fate. |
| Sweet Home | Completed | Horror, Thriller | WEBTOON | A tense monster-apocalypse thriller about survival and humanity. Its Netflix adaptation boosted global fame. |
| The Boxer | Completed | Sports, Psychological Drama | WEBTOON | A profound sports masterpiece. More than boxing, it's a deep dive into trauma, genius, and the meaning of fighting. |
| True Beauty | Completed | Romance, Drama, Comedy | WEBTOON | The iconic makeup-transformation romance that became a hit K-drama. Explores themes of self-esteem and identity. |
| Our Beloved Summer | Completed | Romance, Slice-of-Life | WEBTOON | A warm, nostalgic, and character-driven romance about former lovers reunited for a documentary. |
| The Horizon | Completed | Drama, Psychological | WEBTOON | A short, profoundly impactful story about two children's struggle for hope in a post-apocalyptic world. |
4. Unique Styles & Genre Standouts
If you're looking for unique themes or deeper storytelling, the “Unique Styles & Genre Standouts” won't disappoint.
| Title | Status | Genre | Where to Read (Primary Platform) | Why Binge? |
| Lookism | Ongoing | Drama, Action, Social | WEBTOON | A gripping story that tackles deep social issues like lookism, intertwined with thrilling gang warfare and personal growth. |
| The Beginning After the End | Ongoing | Fantasy, Adventure | Tapas | A beautifully drawn epic following a king reborn into a magical world. Combines rich world-building, intense action, and deep character growth. |
Exploring Korean webtoons and manhwa has never been easier thanks to a wide range of officially licensed platforms. Whether you prefer free chapters, subscription access, or pay-per-episode models, there’s a service to suit every reader.
With the 18 recommended series highlighted in this guide, you now have a solid starting point to dive into stories that match your taste—whether it’s bingeing completed classics, following ongoing hits, or discovering unique genres. Start reading today and join millions of fans worldwide enjoying the immersive world of Korean comics.