The Joseon Dynasty, which ruled Korea for over five centuries, remains an intriguing chapter in the country’s history. Its customs, traditions, and cultural remnants still hold a fascination for us today, even as society continues to advance into modernity. Despite this progress, there’s no shortage of curiosity about this captivating epoch.
This ties directly into historical manhwa, a widely appreciated genre by numerous readers. One particular era, the Joseon Dynasty, is often revisited in numerous tales, spanning from romance to action, or even fantasy. These narratives transport readers to a distinct timeframe, offering them not only cultural insights but also showcasing the stark societal and class differences. Here are some manhwa set during the Joseon Dynasty that are renowned for their captivating atmosphere and gripping storylines.
8. Master Villainess The Invincible!
An Unstoppable Woman In Ancient Korea
Creator | Gabi Name and Will Bright (Story) Yooani (Art) |
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Release Date | 2020 |
Chapters | 129 |
Status | Ongoing |
In a new life, a once-struggling Korean author finds herself transformed into the antagonist of a renowned martial arts novel titled “The Invincible.” Now known as Haewon Tang, she focuses on seeking strong allies, evading her own demise, and protecting her clan.
If you’re seeking a unique portrayal of women outside conventional Joseon Dynasty culture, this manhwa is an ideal choice. The protagonist, Haewon, draws upon wisdom from her past existence to assert her identity as a strong woman and resist conformity. Each character in this intriguing blend of martial arts, fantasy, and romance is genuinely endearing.
7. My Royal Awakening
From Average Guy To Grand Prince
Creator | Dopamine and Kusa (Story) Kim Tae-Hyung (Art) |
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Release Date | 2020 |
Chapters | 88 |
Status | Completed |
In a surprising twist of fate, a common man from modern Korea finds himself inhabiting the body of Grand Prince Jin-seong during the Joseon dynasty. Instead of living a luxurious life as one might expect, this new incarnation is confronted with harsh realities, for Prince Jin-seong is the younger brother to one of history’s cruelest rulers.
Titled “My Royal Awakening,” this captivating narrative delves into the life of Prince Jin-seong amidst the tumultuous political climate and the chaotic environment of his new existence. He offers a fresh perspective on the cultural facets of the Joseon Dynasty, aiming to reform rigid traditions that have been imposed throughout the ages. This engaging tale will delight readers who appreciate stunning artwork, intriguing plot twists, and heartfelt moments.
6. Whale Star: The Gyeongseong Mermaid
A Tragic Tale Of The Joseon Mermaid
Creator | Na Yoonhee (Story & Art) |
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Release Date | 2019 |
Chapters | 107 |
Status | Completed |
In this reimagining of ‘The Little Mermaid’ by Hans Christian Andersen, the narrative unfolds in Joseon during the year 1926, a time when Japan holds colonial rule over the nation. Su-a Heo, a humble maidservant, spends her leisure moments swimming in the sea. During one of these swims, she encounters an injured freedom fighter named Uihyeon Kang. After nursing him back to health, a regrettable event leads to Su-a losing her ability to speak.
Delving into “Whale Star: The Gyeongseong Mermaid” is an exhilarating journey I wouldn’t recommend for the faint-hearted. This gripping manhwa masterfully weaves historical references with powerful themes of love, loss, revenge, and identity. Readers may find themselves deeply moved by this story, cherishing its depths or vehemently opposed to its tragic undertones.
5. Concubine Walkthrough
Stuck In A Josen Game As A Consort
Creator | Bong Bong (Story & Art) |
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Release Date | 2020 |
Chapters | 130 |
Status | Completed |
When Yona finds herself immersed in the game titled “Concubine Walkthrough“, she’s got quite a challenge on her hands as she navigates through the reign of the harsh king, maneuvers around his vicious concubines, and dodges numerous political traps intended to oust her. The only method for Yona to escape this game is by ascending to the throne as Queen, but her rivals in this pursuit are ruthless.
The story takes place within a game-like setting, but the environment is modeled on the Joseon dynasty period. Consequently, readers will recognize many cultural and behavioral parallels. This is particularly evident in the multiple empresses featured, as well as the traditional roles women were expected to follow.
4. Black Corporation: Joseon
An Inventor Finally Finds His Home
Creator | Gukpong and Kim Puluk (Story) Hong Sanggi (Art) |
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Release Date | 2023 |
Chapters | 83 |
Status | Ongoing |
In a fascinating twist of fate, a quirky inventor from contemporary Korea finds himself reborn as a prince in the Joseon era. Here, he’s spared the mockery that often accompanies his unusual pastime, and his noble birth elevates him to the highest echelons of society.
In the story, Black Corporation: Joseon, our protagonist finds that life as Prince Hyang is not simple due to his father’s significant impact on history. Rather than attempting to alter history substantially, he chooses to ascend the throne and modernize Joseon, offering an engaging read for those who love delving into historical details.
3. The Red Sleeve
A Forbidden Love That Became Everlasting Devotion
Creator | Dopamine and Kang Mikang (Story) CreativeSUMM (Art) |
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Release Date | 2021 |
Chapters | 146 |
Status | Ongoing |
From the perspective of an onlooker, I’d recount that the narrative of “The Red Sleeve” unfolds, offering a poignant and tender portrayal of one of Joseon’s most celebrated pairs, Emperor Yi San and Noble Consort Deok Im. Initially, Deok Im held the position of a mere Court Lady, but her allure eventually captured the heart of Crown Prince Yi San.
In a love that society deemed unacceptable, they braved against norms and conventions, opting instead to battle for their affection and pursue their joy. This heartrending tale of love, though often crushed by history, promises to stir tears in its readers as it portrays the profound love these two hearts held for each other.
2. The Fantastic Spinsters’ Association of Joseon
Hunting For Criminals Instead Of Husbands
Creator | Yoshin (Story) Shin Yuri (Art) |
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Release Date | 2022 |
Chapters | 60 |
Status | Completed |
In the traditional society of Joseon, the Unusual Sisterhood Guild offers an unexpected twist. These women, members of the Sisterhood, are more concerned with earning wealth and solving mysteries rather than seeking a husband, making them quite extraordinary figures during this strict era.
Readers might discover this story refreshingly different, as it portrays a bold, self-reliant woman challenging societal norms, contrasting many heavy, conventional narratives set in the Joseon era.
1. Mystic Prince
A Hidden Goddess Of Fire
Creator | aheuedal (Story & Art) |
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Release Date | 2021 |
Chapters | 116 |
Status | Completed |
In a magical rendition of ancient Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, we find the kingdom of Yeol, a land favored by the gods. Twenty princes, each gifted uniquely, have been nurtured since birth to vie for the throne. Among them is the Fourth Prince Jeok-yeon, who conceals a potentially treasonous secret that could alter the course of their divine lineage.
In a captivating narrative, richly developed characters, and poignant scenes, “Mystic Prince” redefines the atmosphere of the Joseon era in this enchanted realm. As readers immerse themselves in the tale, they might discover that its charm resides in the tragic circumstances of each prince’s life.
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2025-03-21 06:37