Best Manhwa About Monster Hunting

Summary

Monster invasions in manhwa often lead to hunts for survival or income.
Different themes in manhwa include time travel, system errors, and unique powers.
The sub-genre includes overpowered protagonists in thrilling hunter stories.

As a seasoned aficionado of the intricate world of Korean webtoons, I must say that this list is nothing short of a treasure trove for any ardent fan of the genre! From the heart-pounding adventures of Solo Leveling to the whimsical charm of I Stole the First Ranker’s Soul, these manhwa have left an indelible mark on my literary journey.

In many manhwa stories, monster attacks are frequent occurrences. Due to various circumstances, gates open up worldwide, enabling monstrous creatures and bizarre beasts to wreak havoc on Earth. The only individuals capable of countering these threats are hunters. This is a fantasy sub-genre that emerged in the early 2010s and has been growing increasingly popular since then.

In theory, anyone could be a monster hunter if monsters truly exist; however, it’s crucial to understand that not all monster hunting serves the same purpose. In comic books known as manhwa, monster hunters often pursue and collect monsters for financial gain or survival needs, acting out of self-defense rather than protection. On the other hand, when the story involves players or awakened individuals, their objectives tend to be more ambitious, such as conquering a tower or clearing a dungeon. This discussion will primarily revolve around the first scenario.

10. Seoul Station Druid

The King Of The Jungle Becomes A Hunter

MyAnimeList Score: 6.58
Published: 2021 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Fantasy, Iseka
Author: Seolwoo Jin
Illustrator: Hwalseonggom

As portals sprang up worldwide, unleashing monstrous invasions, some individuals found themselves transferred to diverse realms, among them Park Suho. Stranded on a planet teeming with a colossal jungle inhabited by massive creatures, Suho endured for centuries before another portal reappeared, returning him to Earth. Shortly afterward, he rose to be recognized as the world’s most powerful hunter.

This manhwa may follow familiar patterns with overpowered protagonists and hunter tales, but it remains enjoyable and fulfilling to read thanks to Park Suho’s distinctive character. His time on the jungle planet has given him a more primal nature than an average person, making him act like a wild beast within a human form. This deviation from typical reasoning adds an exciting twist to the narrative.

9. I’ll Retire After Saving The World

Nihilist Government Worker Goes Back In Time

MyAnimeList Score: N/A
Published: 2024 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Time Travel
Author: Millem
Illustrator: Salam

In many tales about hunters in manhwa, characters often travel back in time and grow stronger. However, this isn’t the kind of story we have here. As dungeons started appearing more frequently and posing a significant threat to humanity, it was inevitable that they would eventually overrun us. By some fortuitous event, Woo Hwijae managed to journey 20 years into the past. To ensure society was ready for the impending catastrophe, Hwijae decided to teach at the Hunter Development Agency.

The unique aspect of this regression tale lies in the fact that Hwijae does not age backward. Instead, he travels to the past as a mature adult in his thirties. Unlike many stories where characters aim to grow stronger themselves, Hwijae focuses on mentoring young trainees to tackle future challenges. This manhwa stands out by offering a rare perspective on the lives of those being trained as hunters.

8. Limit Breaker

A Glitch In The System Creates The Strongest Human

MyAnimeList Score: 6.58
Published: 2020 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Fantasy
Author: Seongbul Yejeong
Illustrator: Mino

In certain graphic novels (manhwa), characters don’t spontaneously discover their abilities; instead, they undergo a kind of training or initiation process. Specifically, in the series “Limit Breaker“, trainees are challenged to survive against a monster for as long as possible. Regrettably, Kim Kibong’s initial training had a flaw, trapping him despite fulfilling the necessary conditions. Following his escape, a considerable amount of time elapsed, and he dramatically increased his strength, now able to defeat almost any monster with a single attack.

This manhwa, unlike many conventional power fantasy stories, dives straight into the action without much build-up. The protagonist, Kibong, swiftly overpowers even formidable foes using nothing but his raw fist strength, seemingly unfazed by the challenge. While it can become a bit monotonous at times, the story remains engaging, boasting some spectacular fight sequences.

7. Metro Hunter

The Adventures Of A Veteran Hunter

MyAnimeList Score: 6.66
Published: 2021 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Author: Yeop Doo
Illustrator: Jun-gyeong Cheok

It’s usually more captivating to observe how authors blend fantasy with reality, and in the case of “Metro Hunter“, this is done by portraying monsters as the ones who have taken control of the city’s subway system – the underground metro lines. The narrative revolves around Kang Cheol, a robust hunter known for tackling the toughest assignments and daring to venture into the riskiest locales. His objective is to eliminate the Master of Fire.

The magical and monster-filled setting in this comic (manhwa) is outstanding, as the author seamlessly blends these elements into the world’s fabric. Viewing it through Kang Cheol’s eyes, who is an experienced hunter, makes the exploration less daunting. With its playful, cartoonish artwork, this comic is a delightful read overall.

6. Solo Resurrection

The Only Strategy He Needs Is His Fist

MyAnimeList Score: 7.04
Published: 2024 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Fantasy
Author: Hanso
Illustrator: Studio Khit

In this narrative, individuals who have reached sixteen are subjected to a tutorial while they’re asleep. Successfully completing one level grants them access to the system in their waking life. Yet, if they fail, they are barred from returning to the tutorial. Remarkably, Kang Hyeon enjoys an advantage due to his unique ability – he can resurrect. This allows him infinite attempts, making him incredibly powerful before the tutorial has even concluded.

In this manhwa, the character Kang Hyeon seems to act impulsively, often without a clear motive or logic behind his actions, at times appearing more trouble-causing than anything else. Yet, these unpredictable decisions lead to some exciting moments, as he opts for an all-out power build, resolving issues through sheer force. Given his ability to resurrect, he approaches every challenge with a fearless recklessness that keeps things intriguing.

5. The First Hunter

The Apocalypse’s Legendary Hunter

MyAnimeList Score: N/A
Published: 2019 to 2021
Genres/Themes: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Apocalypse
Author: D-Dart
Illustrator: Chanuk Jeon

“The First Hunter

In contrast to other hunter manhwas, this tale carries a realistic, tough-as-nails atmosphere. Unlike others, there’s no supernatural aid or interface providing direction; instead, the characters have to figure things out themselves, living only for their survival.

4. Auto Hunting With My Clones

Two Heads Are Better Than One

MyAnimeList Score: 7.21
Published: 2022 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Fantasy
Author: Mongsik
Illustrator: Opal

In this comic series, individuals are able to transform into hunters after undergoing the awakening procedure. When character Jeong Sang-Woo experiences his awakening, he acquires the ability known as “Cloning,” which empowers him to produce a duplicate of himself. This replica follows instructions and can also boost his stats. By utilizing these duplicates, he is able to enhance his power, generate income, and maintain a social life simultaneously. However, being a hunter encompasses far more than just physical strength and wealth.

In “Auto Hunting With My Clones,” the narrative flow and character progression are commendable. Unlike instantaneous strength gain, Sang-Woo’s development is gradual, with training phases skillfully integrated into the storyline. This allows readers to witness Sang-Woo’s growth over time, making his eventual rise in power seem organic and believable.

3. S-Class That I Raised

Being Weak Isn’t A Bad Thing

MyAnimeList Score: 7.39
Published: 2021 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Time Travel
Author: Biwan
Illustrator: Geunseo

Han Yunjin is a hunter of class F, barely distinguishable from ordinary humans, while his sibling, Yoohyun, transformed into an S-Class hunter. Due to their contrasting roles, they grow apart until a tragic event forces them back together. Eventually, Yoohyun perishes. Seizing an opportunity to rewind time, Yunjin decides to forsake his career as a hunter and mend the bond with his deceased brother.

Despite his plans to leave hunting behind, Yunjin finds himself entangled in hunter disputes as he begins recruiting for his brother’s guild. While there are still thrilling dungeon expeditions and monster hunts, the narrative primarily focuses on Yunjin’s encounters with other hunters, particularly when he takes up rearing monsters himself. This tale is light-hearted and somewhat absurd, boasting fantastic battle scenes and well-developed characters.

2. I Stole the First Ranker’s Soul

Some Accidents Have Terrific Consequences

MyAnimeList Score: 7.52
Published: 2022 to 2024
Chapters: 100
Genres/Themes: Action, Fantasy
Author: Sulpurenamu
Illustrator: Ijeong

In the world of hunter manhwa, female main characters are scarce, but “I Stole the First Ranker’s Soul” shows that this should change. Our protagonist, Son Mo-Ah, is an ordinary office worker who finds herself in a dungeon one fateful day. There, she unexpectedly transforms into a hunter with skills for efficient resource gathering. This unique ability allows her to witness the demise of the strongest hunter, Seo Jihan. In a twist of fate, Mo-Ah unintentionally claims his soul using her abilities.

Afterward, the narrative unfolds much like other power fantasies, but unlike those tales, she’s not on her own. Instead, Jihan is present in a spiritual guise, helping her as they devise a means to resurrect him. The storyline seamlessly blends a dramatic, apocalyptic backdrop with everyday life and romance, adding a touch of lightness. Furthermore, the protagonist exhibits an engaging personality that many other manhwa seem to be missing.

1. Solo Leveling

Story Of The Most Iconic Necromancer

MyAnimeList Score: 8.66
Published: 2018 to 2023
Chapters: 201
Genres/Themes: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Adult Cast, Urban Fantasy
Author: Chugong
Illustrator: Sung-rak Jang, Disciples

In terms of manhwa about monster hunting, it’s clear that “Solo Leveling” stands out as the most beloved. While stories like this have been around for some time, it wasn’t until “Solo Leveling” that the sub-genre truly gained traction. The story of Sung Jinwoo transforming from the weakest to the strongest hunter has served as a significant source of inspiration for numerous aspiring authors to pen their own tales in this genre.

The narrative centers around Sung Jinwoo, a lowly E-rank hunter, who ventures into dungeons to cover living expenses and medical bills for his family. Despite barely making ends meet due to his weak status as the lowest-ranked hunter, things take an unexpected turn following a massive tragedy that claims most of his team members. This unfortunate event bestows upon him a system reminiscent of a game, which enables him to become stronger over time. This peculiar transformation forever alters the course of his life.

2024-12-21 18:07