Top 5 Reincarnation Manhwa Where Villains Become Heroes

In many tales of reincarnation, protagonists frequently find themselves in younger forms of their past selves. However, it’s intriguing to ponder what unfolds when antagonists are given a second chance, choosing to embody the hero destined to protect our world, or striving to correct their mistakes by leading a life guided by diligence and compassion.

This list highlights tales centered around characters who were once villains but have since reformed or been reincarnated into new roles. These captivating stories feature heroes that were initially antagonists, or even villainesses seeking redemption in their second or subsequent lives, and they are rich with unexpected turns, high-stakes drama, and a dash of humor too.

In this context, “villains” simply means characters who tended to be unscrupulous individuals, although they may not have been the most deplorable among them all.

5. Standard Of Reincarnation

Reincarnating As The Son Of His Rival Family Is Perfect For Him

Genre: Adventure, Shonen, Dark Fantasy, Sword And Sorcery, Action, Reincarnation
Author: Ilhwang
Artist: Ramwoo

This narrative commences following the demise of the One-Armed Villain at the hands of the Samion clan. The villain was a rogue and adversary to the kingdom who attempted to assassinate his entire family due to their rejection of him. Posthumously, he is called by the spirit of a young boy named Vincent Adenca, a son from a rival lineage to the royal bloodline.

In this new scenario, Vincent serves as the vessel, and he transforms into a Guardian Spirit, an earlier step towards divinity. Alongside him, they concoct a plot for vengeance against the families who once scorned them due to their perceived weakness. Thus, we embark on a narrative about two antagonists sharing one body. However, events unfold in such a way that these former villains ultimately emerge as the heroes in this tale.

4. 66666 Years: Advent Of The Dark Magician

The Devil You Know, Wearing The Face Of An Innocent Child

Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery, School Life, Drama
Author: Hwabong
Artists: Taru

In simpler terms, Diablo Volpir was an old, powerful sorcerer who sought to become a god and dethrone the existing gods due to their manipulative rule over humanity. However, he was too powerful to be killed outright, so all the gods combined their powers to imprison him for 66,666 years. But eventually, the barrier that kept him contained collapsed, releasing Diablo. Instead of returning as his previous self, his spirit reborn in a young noble named Jamie Welton’s body.

The scion of the illustrious Welton family is swiftly viewed as a divine messenger, as he receives the blessing from one of the goddesses he detested most fervently. Unable to reject an intriguing proposition, he agrees to aid her in ridding the world of other deities. Consequently, this former adversary-turned-champion will rally both old and new allies in a grand campaign to eradicate these corrupt divinities forever.

3. The Extra’s Academy Survival Guide

He Was A Minor Villain, Now He Has Become The School Hero

Genre: Adventure, Drama, Dark Fantasy, School Life, Reincarnation, Isekai
Author: Korita
Artist: GREEN KYRIN

Originally, Ed Rothstaylor was a secondary antagonist in a School Life Fantasy Role-Playing Game. However, when a skilled player is reborn as him, Ed transitions from being an insignificant character in Act 1 to a pivotal figure in the narrative. The newly reincarnated Ed, who appreciates “happy endings,” will take any necessary steps to ensure that all unfavorable outcomes are avoided throughout the storyline.

In the narrative, the character remains guarded due to his inability to trust anyone, as everyone could potentially be an adversary or authority figure if the plot takes a dark turn. However, against all odds, this antagonist gradually outshines both the hero and protagonist, captivating several key female characters with his self-reliant survival skills.

2. The Villainess Is A Marionette

A Third Chance To Mend Her Mistakes

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Drama, Political Intrigue, Reincarnation, Reverse Isekai, Isekai
Author: Han Yi Rim
Artist: Manggle

In a romantic fantasy tale, Kayena serves as the primary antagonist. Originally a self-serving and naive princess from a kingdom torn apart by a power struggle, she was deceived and killed. After reincarnation into Korean society, she spent her life riddled with remorse, only to meet her second death as a mere pawn for others.

Instead, let’s revisit her character as Kayena. She chooses a complete reversal in her journey and seizes control of her own destiny. She exhibits kindness, patience, and shrewdness; crucially, she understands the rules of the game. Once everyone witnesses her remarkable metamorphosis, she emerges as the heroine fated to rescue the kingdom from impending doom.

1. The Greatest Estate Developer

A Vicious Professional Decides To Transform The World

Genres: Fantasy, Isekai, Comedy, Action, Slice of Life, Reincarnation
Author: Lee Hyunmin (novel), Yama (adaptation)
Artist: Kim Hyunsoo

A university engineering student finds himself in the role of Lloyd Frontera, a marginal villain with little renown, often dismissed as a secondary or insignificant character. However, when the spirit of a driven entrepreneur takes over, could his circumstances possibly improve?

In an exhilarating twist of fate, I found myself stepping into the role of a former adversary in a crumbling kingdom, transforming from a menacing figure into its savior. Utilizing my engineering prowess and construction skills, I breathed new life into our lands, turning desolation into prosperity.

With boldness and cunning, I navigated the complexities of governance, yet some may label me as cruel, relentless, brutal, and avaricious. Yet, there’s an undeniable sense that my journey is leading me towards heroism. The future might be uncertain, but one thing is clear: I am destined to become the champion this kingdom needs.

2025-01-20 12:24