Must-Read Webtoons That Inspired Popular Global K-Dramas!
- Disha Paul
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
K-dramas based on webtoons have taken the entertainment industry by storm, blending stunning visuals with unique narratives.
Many hit dramas originated from webtoons, proving their massive influence. Here are some of the best webtoons that turned into successful K-dramas!
1. Misaeng (2014)
Webtoon: Misaeng by Yoon Tae Ho explores the harsh realities of office life through Jang Geu Rae, a former baduk player, struggling to fit into corporate culture.
Drama: The 2014 K-drama adaptation, starring Yim Si Wan, became a cultural phenomenon, praised for its realistic portrayal of workplace struggles.
2. Cheese in the Trap (2016)
Webtoon: Cheese in the Trap, by Soonkki, follows the complex relationship between a seemingly perfect senior, Yoo Jung, and an observant college student, Hong Seol.
Drama: The 2016 K-drama starred Kim Go Eun and Park Hae Jin, bringing the psychological romance to life, though some fans were divided over its adaptation choices.
3. What's Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018)
Webtoon: Jung Kyung Yoon’s What's Wrong with Secretary Kim is a romance about a narcissistic CEO and his efficient secretary, who suddenly decides to resign.
Drama: The 2018 K-drama starring Park Seo Joon and Park Min Young became a massive hit, with their chemistry captivating audiences worldwide!
4. True Beauty (2020-2021)
Webtoon: True Beauty by Yaongyi follows Ju Kyung, a high school girl who masters makeup to boost her confidence while dealing with love and self-esteem issues.
Drama: The 2020-2021 adaptation starring Moon Ga Young, Cha Eun Woo, and Hwang In Yeop was a global success, with fans praising its blend of comedy and romance.
5. The Uncanny Counter (2020-2023)
Webtoon: The Uncanny Counter by Jang Yi follows a team of supernatural hunters who use their unique abilities to track and eliminate evil spirits.
Drama: The drama adaptation starring Jo Byeong Kyu, Kim Se Jeong, and Yoo Joon Sang became a surprise hit, leading to a second season due to its thrilling action and engaging characters.
6. A Business Proposal (2022)
Webtoon: Hae Hwa’s A Business Proposal is a rom-com about an office worker who goes on a blind date pretending to be someone else — only to meet her company’s CEO.
Drama: The 2022 K-drama adaptation starring Ahn Hyo Seop and Kim Se Jeong became an international hit, proving the timeless appeal of webtoon-based rom-coms!
7. Weak Hero Class 1 (2022)
Webtoon: Weak Hero by Seopass and Kim Jin Seok is an action-packed webtoon following a seemingly weak student who outsmarts bullies with his intelligence and strategic fighting.
Drama: The 2022 adaptation, starring Park Ji Hoon, received praise for its intense fight sequences and gripping storytelling. The first season was re-released on Netflix on March 25, 2025 and the second season will be released in April 2025.
8. Itaewon Class (2020)
Webtoon: Itaewon Class by Jo Gwang Jin tells the inspiring story of a young man who opens a restaurant in Itaewon to seek revenge against a powerful business group.
Drama: The 2020 drama starring Park Seo Joon and Kim Da Mi was a massive success, known for its strong storytelling, diverse characters, and social themes!
9. Moving (2023)
Webtoon: Moving by Kang Full follows a group of individuals with superpowers who try to keep their abilities hidden while facing dangerous threats.
Drama: The 2023 Disney+ series became one of Korea’s highest-rated dramas, proving the power of webtoon-based storytelling. Season 2 of Moving is already in the works confirmed by official sources.
After Moving Kang Full's other webtoons, Light Shop and The Witch, were also adapted into dramas, which received huge popularity.
2025 Continues the Webtoon Adaptation Trend
The popularity of webtoon-based K-dramas shows no signs of slowing down. In 2025, some of the most anticipated K-dramas (Study Group, My Dearest Nemesis, The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call, Bunny and Her Boys) are webtoon adaptations.
Fans love how these stories bring their favorite digital comics to life with strong storytelling and cinematic quality. As webtoons continue to dominate the entertainment industry, we can expect even more exciting adaptations in the years to come.
Which webtoon adaptation is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
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