Key Takeaways
- BL manhwa often focus on character relationships over plot, but some strike a balance for a more engaging story.
- Traces of the Sun dives into survivor’s guilt, trauma, and emotions beyond typical hunter storylines.
- Uncanny Charm showcases a natural romance progression through character development and unique backstories.
As a seasoned reader of BL manhwas, I must say that each of these titles presents a unique and captivating tale that caters to different tastes. From office romances to fantasy adventures, there’s something for everyone in this list.
Boys’ Love stories can be found in various storylines and categories, such as traditional love stories, fantasy epics, suspenseful thrillers, and even chilling horror tales. In manhwa, numerous BL narratives primarily focus on the relationship between the central characters, which might seem apparent for this genre. However, these character-centric plots typically contain minimal world-building or additional details, beyond those essential for the love story.
Not every Boys’ Love manhwa follows the same pattern. Some creators skillfully blend a captivating narrative with a developing romance, offering much more than just meet-cutes, emotional turmoil, and misunderstandings. The inclusion of additional plot elements typically strengthens character relationships by providing valuable context and information.
1 Traces Of The Sun
A Hunter Can’t Save His Friends Or Himself
- MyAnimeList Score: N/A
- Published: 2021 to 2024
- Chapters: 95
- Genres/Themes: Fantasy, Boys Love, Superpowers, Psychological
- Author: Hae-neul Do
- Illustrator: Merin
While numerous manhwa showcase hunters and dungeons, it’s only more recently that characters identifying as LGBT have been introduced. One such series, “Traces of the Sun,” focuses on Jeong Yiseon, an S-class restorer with the extraordinary ability to rebuild entire cities in mere minutes. However, Yiseon chooses to remain hidden from public view due to a significant secret: he has violated a taboo.
When Sa Hyeon discovers his hidden past, he’s compelled to work with him, forming an alliance to conquer the toughest dungeons globally. Although it might appear like a standard hunter narrative, it delves deep into themes of survivor’s guilt and emotional turmoil. The romantic elements emerge late in the manhwa, but they take a backseat to the story’s psychological exploration.
2 Angel Buddy
Consequences Of Breaking An Angel’s Wing
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.47
- Published: 2019 to 2021
- Chapters: 82
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Supernatural, Romance
- Author: MasterGin
- Illustrator: Chungnyun
There are numerous Boys Love manhwa that incorporate supernatural elements into their narratives, and one highly acclaimed among them is “Angel Buddy”. In this tale, Kim Sooho has spent his entire existence with the ability to perceive spirits, a trait that set him apart and was mostly an inconvenience. However, things become more intricate when the angel Taker enters his life.
As a gamer delving into the world of Sooho, I find myself in the thick of things due to his exceptionally potent spirit. Every supernatural menace seems to have him squarely in their sights. Lucky for him, Taker is always there, ready to shield him from harm. Living side by side with this guardian has sparked a unique bond between us, and as our days pass, our feelings for each other deepen. This tale is filled with charming, heartwarming moments that keep me hooked, even if the ending seems a bit hurried. All in all, it’s an engaging story worth exploring.
3 At The End Of The Road
Waking Up In Someone Else’s Body
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.73
- Published: 2016 to 2018
- Chapters: 26
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Drama, Suspense, Psychological, Reincarnation, School
- Author: Haribo
- Illustrator: Haribo
In many popular comic books (manhwa), reincarnation is a common theme. In this particular tale, Yoon Taemin finds himself revived as Han Siwon following a car accident. Now in an entirely different body and surroundings, Taemin faces the challenges that originally beset Siwon. Matters become even more puzzling when he spots someone from his past under a new alias. However, it doesn’t take long before the reason behind Han Siwon’s demise is uncovered.
The narrative primarily explores the process of mending the bond between Siwon (Taemin) and Min Siwoon, yet it predominantly delves into the bullying incidents prior to their body swap, along with the impacts of sudden transformation into a new individual. Notable scenes shed light on the profound psychological effects of reincarnation.
4 A Painter Behind The Curtain
The Unexpected Hardship Of Being A Painter
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.69
- Published: 2015 to 2019
- Chapters: 75
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Drama, Erotica, Historical
- Author: Munamu
- Illustrator: Munamu
Some find “A Painter Behind The Curtain” one of the most perplexing manhwa they’ve ever encountered, often due to the intense emotional upheaval it triggers. Packed with enough scandals and secrets to fuel a long-running TV soap opera, this tale revolves around Ian, a struggling artist who works anonymously for a noble family. His life is marked by gloom and solitude until he captures the interest of a wealthy merchant, bringing a new dimension to his otherwise bleak existence.
This tale unfolds as a captivating journey from poverty to wealth, subtly intertwining with an illicit love affair between Ian and Raymond. Beneath their clandestine relationship lies a web of political scheming and deception, growing increasingly intense until it reaches a fever pitch. The narrative no longer focuses solely on the two protagonists; instead, it delves into the fate and prosperity of an entire nation.
5 Uncanny Charm
Accidentally Cursed By The Neighbor
- MyAnimeList Score: N/A
- Published: 2020 to 2024
- Chapters: 108
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Supernatural, Romance
- Author: Kom
- Illustrator: Kom
Occasionally, a captivating BL manhwa may not begin with romance but instead delve into other genres, such as supernatural or mystery elements. In “Uncanny Charm”, the protagonist, Cho Yoonjae, is an ordinary college student leading a typical life. However, his tranquil existence takes an unexpected turn when a man named Beomjin moves in. Soon after, Yoonjae starts perceiving spirits and ghosts due to a cursed bell that mysteriously attaches itself to his wrist. With no means of removing it, he is compelled to aid Beomjin in exorcising these spectral entities until they uncover a solution to their predicament.
In stories such as this one, what’s fascinating is discovering the characters before they start their romantic relationship. The characters Yoonjae and Beomjin experience multiple situations and circumstances that precede their falling in love. This approach lends a more authentic feel to their romance, making it seem less like a forced plot device. Furthermore, since both characters have intriguing pasts, this narrative technique is particularly effective here.
6 Eternal Covenant
A Bond Transcends Lifetimes
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.14
- Published: 2021 to Present
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Fantasy
- Author: Haejin
- Illustrator: Haejin
Stories that primarily focus on plot development often feature romantic relationships that develop at a gradual pace, similar to a slow-burning flame. For instance, in the series “Eternal Covenant“, the central relationship remains unresolved even after two seasons. The protagonist is Ian Gloucester, a knight of the Derwin kingdom who possesses innate magical abilities. Since childhood, he has been viewed as a monster and demon due to his powers, but one day he encounters a stranger who doesn’t consider his abilities a curse.
“Slow-burn romances often become dull too soon, but Eternal Covenant offers an engaging and suspenseful narrative beyond the main characters falling in love. Although their relationship isn’t yet official, the plot maintains the excitement and increases the anticipation. When they eventually get together, it will make the romance even more satisfying.
7 On Or Off
A College Start-Up Gets Its Big Break
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.96
- Published: 2019 to 2022
- Chapters: 91
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Erotica
- Author: A1
- Illustrator: A1
Among the titles here, “On or Off” most closely resembles a conventional Rom-com. The narrative revolves around Ahn Yiyoung and his companions embarking on an entrepreneurial journey. As they prepare to present their business proposal to SJ Corporation, unexpected technical issues lead to their disqualification before the presentation. Yiyoung makes a plea for a second chance to Kang Daehyung, the company director, but finds himself tangled in more complications than anticipated.
Office romances aren’t exactly novel, yet they often overlook the dynamics within the workplace. A significant aspect of this narrative revolves around a cluster of reserved college students joining forces with a big corporation, tackling tasks, and navigating office politics. Meanwhile, the blossoming relationship between Yiyoung and director Kang simmers subtly in the backdrop.
8 Killer Crush
A Professional Killer Falls In Love
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.02
- Published: 2021 to 2024
- Chapters: 77
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Comedy, Adult Cast, Organized Crime
- Author: Eresemo
- Illustrator: Eresemo
Unusual as it may seem, cold-blooded assassins like Joo Taeman aren’t typically known for their empathy or emotional depth. Yet, to his surprise, he finds himself growing attached to the acclaimed actor Kang Dahyeok. On the other hand, Kang Dahyeok is trying to shake off his ‘prince charming’ image and adopt a more villainous persona in public perception. Their unexpected encounter initiates a complex relationship fraught with hidden truths and apprehensions.
From a fan’s perspective, this manhwa I’m engrossed in has a delightful romantic comedy vibe. The blossoming romance between the two characters is undeniably central to the narrative, yet it’s the intricate web of crime and the underworld that Taeman is entangled in that adds depth and excitement. His notorious status as a killer doesn’t exactly make things easier for him, especially when it comes to mustering the courage to express his feelings towards his crush.
9 King’s Maker
Unlikely Allies Overthrow A Tyrant King
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.23
- Published: 2017
- Chapters: 38
- Genres/Themes: Boys Love, Drama, Fantasy
- Author: Haga
- Illustrator: Ji-young Kang
Few fantasy BL series are as widely recognized as “King’s Maker.” The protagonist is Prince Wolfgang Goldenleonard, the fourth heir to the kingdom who went into hiding following his mother’s demise. Through his bond with the kingdom’s orphans, he’s resolute in overthrowing his father. Along comes Shin Soohyuk, a young lad admired by the king. He views Prince Wolfgang as a chance to transform the kingdom.
Regarding this manhwa, although vibrant colors are employed to depict the characters, the storyline is rather somber. It revolves around a plot to overthrow a tyrannical king who exploits young boys cruelly, making for an engaging and exhilarating read. The bond between Wolfgang and Soohyuk progresses slowly as they are focused on their individual ambitions, but it ultimately unfolds into a deeply heartwarming connection.
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2024-11-24 08:04