Top Korean Dramas Adapted from Webtoons
If you’ve ever wondered why so many Korean dramas feel visually stylish, sharply written, and weirdly addictive, here’s a secret: a huge number of them come from webtoons, Korea’s digital comics that people read on their phones during commutes, coffee breaks, and basically anytime boredom appears. As a Korean local, I can tell you—when a webtoon becomes popular here, it usually becomes a drama. And when that happens, global fans get to enjoy stories that are already loved by millions.
Here’s your guide to the top Korean dramas adapted from webtoons, perfect for international viewers who want to explore stories that started as illustrations before turning into worldwide hits.
Why Webtoon-Based Dramas Work So Well
Webtoon adaptations often stand out because:
- They already come with huge fanbases
- The plots are bold, imaginative, and visually striking
- Characters are distinct and memorable
- Studios stay faithful to the original mood, even when changing details
If you love unique storytelling, these titles should be on your watchlist.
Must-Watch Webtoon Adaptations
Itaewon Class(이태원클라스)
A rebellious underdog story set in one of Seoul’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Park Sae-ro-yi fights corrupt power with pure determination and a team of lovable misfits. The drama kept the webtoon’s emotional punch while adding cinematic flair. International viewers loved its message, energy, and soundtrack.
Extraordinary You(어쩌다 발견한 하루)
Based on a meta-style webtoon about characters discovering they exist inside a comic book. It’s playful, romantic, and surprisingly deep. If you enjoy high-school stories with a twist, this one will charm you instantly.
Sweet Home(스위트 홈)
A dark apocalypse horror series based on a wildly popular webtoon. Residents of a run-down apartment battle monsters that reflect their inner fears. If you like survival stories with emotional undertones, this is one of Netflix’s strongest Korean titles.
Business Proposal(사내맞선)
A lighthearted office romance adapted from a hit webtoon. Fake dating, hilarious misunderstandings, and a CEO who falls first—it’s pure rom-com fun. The adaptation leans into comedy without losing the original charm.
A Businessman Proposal (Yumi’s Cells/유미의 세포들)
Blending animation and live action, this drama shows the tiny “cells” inside a woman’s brain controlling her thoughts and emotions. It’s cute, relatable, and surprisingly honest about modern relationships.
Taxi Driver(모범택시)
A darker, action-focused drama about a secret revenge service that helps victims the justice system ignored. The webtoon was already bold, but the drama adds strong performances and stylish execution.
Weak Hero Class 1(약한영웅 클래스1)
One of the strongest school-violence dramas in recent years. It follows a quiet but brilliant boy who uses strategy (and sometimes a brick) to fight bullies. Raw, realistic, and extremely gripping.
Rising Webtoon Adaptations Gaining Global Attention
Marry My Husband(내 남편과 결혼해줘)
A revenge-romance story about a woman who travels back in time after being betrayed by her husband and best friend. The drama stays loyal to the webtoon’s addictive plot twists, and global fans have been loving the pacing.
A Good Day to Be a Dog(오늘도 사랑스럽개)
A sweet fantasy romance about a woman cursed to turn into a dog whenever she kisses someone, and the one man who can break the curse—but he happens to be terrified of dogs. Charming and easy to binge.
Bloodhounds(사냥개들)
Adapted from a gritty action webtoon, this drama follows two young boxers caught up in the world of loan sharks. Fast-paced, emotional, and surprisingly heartwarming beneath the punches.
Final Thoughts
Webtoons are a huge part of modern Korean culture, and their drama adaptations give you a unique look into the creativity of Korean storytelling. Whether you prefer romance, fantasy, action, or emotional slice-of-life stories, there’s a webtoon-based drama that fits your mood perfectly. And honestly, once you get into one, you’ll probably end up reading the webtoon too—happens to all of us.