Best Coming-Of-Age Manhwa

Key Takeaways

Coming-of-age manhwa cover relatable topics like belonging, change, and self-discovery for readers of all ages.
These manhwas offer fresh perspectives on bullying, with diverse approaches to this complex subject.
Explore different coming-of-age issues like crushes, self-esteem, and finding one’s place in the world through engaging manhwa stories.

As a voracious reader of manga and manhwa, I find myself utterly captivated by these three captivating stories that explore the complexities of femininity, self-image, and acceptance in unique and engaging ways.

These Korean graphic novels, known as manhwa, explore a variety of themes that resonate with people of all ages: from seeking connection, experiencing personal growth, to self-discovery. They offer engaging and sometimes enlightening (or therapeutic) reading experiences for both the young and old. Occasionally, these manhwa can offer fresh perspectives on past or ongoing events in our lives.

Regardless if it’s the anticipation of charming first romances or character growth that draws you to coming-of-age manhwa, here are several series that explore diverse themes. These range from romantic pursuits, personal struggles with self-worth, shyness, self-acceptance, personal discovery, and finding one’s niche in life amidst the challenges posed by family, friends, and societal norms themselves.

7 Annie Green Hates Girls

Overcoming Shyness And Crushes

Genre: High School, Romance, Love Triangle, Character Flaw
Completed: No
Author(s): Minorinmakes

This comic book is ideal for readers seeking a protagonist who is shyer than a rosebud yet possesses an unparalleled kindness within. The character we meet is Annie, a girl so sweet she could put honey to shame, but burdened by her own harsh self-criticism and insecurities. In this comic, Annie embarks on the common high school journey filled with crushes, friendships, and life’s ups and downs. However, her unique challenge lies in her struggle to forge connections with other girls.

As I immersed myself in this game, I was captivated by its dreamy, evocative aesthetic that brought each character to life with an intricate depth. Every character had their unique desires, heartaches, fears, and conflicts, yet the narrative primarily revolved around Anna’s journey to escape her past filled with misconceptions. Her determination to break free and forge a new path was truly inspiring.

6 The Kiss Bet

Dared To Kiss A Stranger, Fated To Meet Him Again

Genre: High School, Romance, Music
Completed: No
Author(s): Ingrid Ochoa

This manhwa featuring protagonists who aren’t Korean has swiftly gained popularity among fans because it showcases relatable and genuine depictions of high school life, resulting in an endearing and authentic romantic tale that revolves around self-exploration, camaraderie, and infatuations.

18-year-old Sara Lin enjoys a rich and fulfilling life filled with affection from her father, camaraderie with friends, and an exciting future ahead. However, when her friend Patrick dares her to kiss a stranger, she has no idea that this chance encounter will significantly impact her life. Unbeknownst to her, this stranger will play a pivotal role in many aspects of Sara’s life in the future.

5 Senpai Is An Otokonoko

A Delicate Story About Understanding One’s Identity

Genre: High School, Gender Identity, Friendship, Love Triangle
Completed: No
Author(s): Pom

This tale, which has been adapted into an anime as well, is a heartwarming journey of adolescent love that delves into poignant topics like identity, sexuality, and self-acceptance. Saki, a charming character, expresses her feelings to Makoto, prompting him to disclose his secret to her. Interestingly, Saki remains unfazed by this revelation. Saki deeply cherishes Makoto and is unwilling to let go of him, so she seeks guidance from Ryuji, Makoto’s closest friend.

As Saki joins Ryuji’s circle of friends, a love triangle unfolds when Ryuji notices Saki’s affectionate interactions with Makoto, causing him to feel uneasy. This discomfort sets off a chain reaction, ultimately helping Ryuji recognize that his feelings for Makoto might extend beyond friendship. The captivating artwork and the unpredictable character growth will keep readers engaged and eagerly anticipating each twist.

4 Not So Shoujo Love Story

Accepting One’s Self And Finding True Love

Genre: High School, Romance, Yuri, Comedy
Completed: No
Author(s): Curryuku

As a devoted admirer of Hansum Ochinchin, the epitome of dreamy highschool crush material, I’ve been daydreaming about our idyllic shojo-style love story. However, things have taken an unexpected turn. Not only does it seem like Hansum can’t recall my name, but the school’s most cherished belle, Hanna, has surprisingly declared her feelings for me. This certainly isn’t how I envisioned my ideal romance unfolding.

Nearly appearing as a satirical spin on shoujo manga, Not So Shoujo Love Story skillfully subverts traditional shoujo tropes, offering a humorous and distinctive take. This manhwa delves into significant coming-of-age topics like personal preferences, self-exploration, and embracing emotions in an engaging and amusing manner.

3 Lady Knight

Fitting In Without Standing Out

Genre: Fantasy, Magic Powers, Heroine, Prophecy
Completed: No
Author(s): Lion Illustrations

As I delve into this captivating narrative, it strikes me as a harmonious blend between manhwa and webtoon, promising an unforgettable reading experience with its exquisite artistry and breathtaking European religious architecture. In the tale unfolds Aurora, a compassionate, diligent orphan who discovers she bears a dreadful curse. To break this curse, she is compelled to enroll in an academy, where she joins an ancient and enigmatic order of knights. This academy, it seems, resembles a perilous high school in its structure, making for a thrilling and engaging journey.

With unwavering resolve and poise, readers will witness Aurora’s transformation into a bold, D’Artagnan-esque lady. Despite her efforts to minimize violence and make use of the academy’s wisdom in innovative, untrodden paths, she will prove herself formidable. Interestingly, Aurora is the lone female at the academy, as the curse has consistently affected only males. Readers will be captivated by her journey, further intrigued by the tasteful blend of historical romance and elegant attire in the narrative.

2 True Beauty

Bullyism, Beauty Standards, And Finding Your Place

Genre: High School, Idol, Beauty/Fashion, Love Triangle
Completed: Yes (256 episodes)
Author(s): Yaongyi

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but rave about one captivating manhwa that’s left an indelible mark on me – True Beauty. This masterfully woven tale is a testament to the power of growth and self-discovery, spanning from youth into maturity. The narrative is so immersive, it feels like I’m walking alongside the characters, experiencing their struggles with bullying, self-perception, societal beauty norms, and life choices. It’s a journey that keeps me hooked right till the very end.

Junyeong is a well-rounded character who struggles with her self-image, as society’s Korean beauty norms label her as unattractive: she will eventually find comfort and acceptance in makeup and fitting in. However, as the narrative unfolds, her secret becomes more of a trap, and makeup starts to confine her, unless she can learn to love herself while still holding onto her passions. Moreover, this tale showcases an exceptional dynamic between its romantic leads.

1 Cursed Princess Club

Imperfections Are What Make You Beautiful

Genre: Comedy, Character Flaw, Self-Image, Family, Fantasy, Royalty
Completed: No
Author(s): Lambcat

In this amusing take on a classic princess tale, readers are introduced to Gwendolyn, who stands out among a family of radiant and handsome royals (including her father, the King). Despite her family’s adoration for her beauty, Gwendolyn is unique in her own wholesome, kind, and gifted way. However, this perception is challenged when she encounters the world outside, particularly in the context of a potential arranged marriage. This external confrontation causes Gwendolyn to question her self-worth and view herself differently for the first time.

Everything appears hopeless for her, even the notion of a traditional romance, until an unintentional turn of events lands her at The Cursed Princess Club – a place that seems custom-made for her, as all its members are either cursed or have unique qualities setting them apart from the typical fairy tale narratives. In this amusing and touching tale about self-acceptance, readers will discover valuable life lessons and witness powerful displays of friendship, as Gwendolyn juggles her newfound club life with her family obligations and the affairs of her neighboring kingdom.

2024-09-01 08:34