Whether petty or violent, revenge stories have always been popular and these Manhwa execute the revenge trope perfectly. With a knack for creating some of popular media’s most hated antagonists, revenge manhwa offer readers the unique satisfaction of seeing these despicable characters finally get what they deserve. In fact, it’s this catharsis that has led to the popularity of the trope and the stories that make use of it.
Most importantly, revenge stories often give rise to more complex and morally gray characters which add depth to the overarching plot. While readers may not always be able to rationalize a character’s actions seeking revenge, as long as there is a justifiable reason, readers can often relate to even the most manipulative characters, even living vicariously through them in a way , which is why many other manhwa have also started making use of the trope.
20
Iris: The Lady and Her Smartphone (2021)
Based on the novel by YOOSWAN, created by YOON HYE & SWAN
Referred to as many readers’ first otome isekai manhwa, Iris: the lady and her smartphone puts its titular character through the gauntlet as she is betrayed and killed by her family and husband.
The resulting reincarnation gives him a glimpse of knowledge from another life, where she gains modern knowledge from Yeonhwa Baek and a curious magical smartphone. Finally, she sets out to seek revenge, enlisting the help of Duke Valenciaga in the process.
19
Priscilla’s Marriage Proposal (2020)
Based on the novel by Lim Seo-rim and illustrated by Merona
Priscila’s marriage proposal follows Priscilla Mortia, a fallen aristocrat turned wizard who travels back in time, hoping to change her destiny. Priscilla was originally forced into a political marriage to save her estate from debt and ruin, but was forced to abandon her home and become a mercenary after learning of her stepmother and husband’s evil plan to kill her and steal her title. .
Featuring the classic fake relationship trope and plenty of wholesome romance for good measure, Priscila’s marriage proposal is perfect for readers looking for quick feedback.
18
Second Life Classifier (2021)
Based on the novel by Sadoyeon
In addition to being an acclaimed light novel with hundreds of chapters, Second Life Classifier It’s a fun read for anyone looking for a brilliant and competent handling of the tropes of the tower genre. This includes an easy-to-understand leveling system similar to Western RPGs such as The oldest scrolls but with a story that reaches impressive depth as it expands.
As Yeonwoo deals with the loss of his brother, who competed in the Sun God Tower, he discovers a trail of betrayal, resolving to avenge the loss of his brother and ascend to the Tower under the callsign “Cain”.
17
Marry My Husband (2021)
Based on the novel by Sungsojak and illustrated by LICO
Marry my husband follows Kang Ji-won, who, after a loveless marriage and years of abuse from her in-laws, discovers that her boyfriend is cheating on her with her best friend. After her boyfriend kills her in a rage upon being confronted, Ji-won mysteriously travels ten years into the past and decides to get revenge by having her best friend marry her apologetic husband.
Ji-won sees through the lies this time and outwits her best friend and manipulative ex-husband at every turn, making her revenge satisfying despite the absurdity of the antagonist’s intrigues at the end.
16
Lonely Lady (2021)
Based on the novel by Kin and illustrated by Minsung
Lonely lady revolves around Hillis Inoaden, a noblewoman who lived seven lives, each ending in death. Hillis is reincarnated each time only to repeat the same cycle of abuse and abandonment at the hands of her cruel brother and half-sister. Only after seven unhappy lives does Hillis finally decide to break the cycle and live her eighth life exclusively for herself.
Described as “a story of revenge, self-reliance and the defeat of past enemies”, Lonely lady and realistic in its portrayal of the difficulties of breaking away from abusive relationshipsmaking the manhwa worth reading despite its slow pace.
15
Roxana (2021)
Based on the novel by Kin and illustrated by Juniljus
Roxana is a must-read manhwa for fans of the villainess trope looking for a new take on the trope. The protagonist of Roxana finds herself reincarnated in a scandalous romance called The Abysmal Flower as Roxana Agréce. Unfortunately, the Agrece family is the story’s antagonists, doomed to a dark fate at the hands of the story’s true heroine. Not wanting to sink with her villainous family, Roxana takes matters into her own hands and the key to her survival is none other than Cassis, the heroine’s brother.
Roxana Contains mature themes and depictions of violence and violence that may be triggering for some audiences.
Unlike other series, Roxana isn’t afraid to be bloody and violent, with a refreshingly morally ambiguous villain like a change of pace.
14
Kill the Hero (2021)
Created by Cartoon life and D-dart
Many RPG-inspired manhwa feature angry protagonists who are quickly overwhelmed in their second lives, but with Woojin, his death at the hands of his guild still fuels the flames of revenge. As he develops his skills and earns more from the Lord of the Underworld, Woojin uses cunning, subterfuge, and different alliances between enemies and allies to achieve his goals.
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The result is an idealized revenge fantasy, with Woojin pulling the strings as he makes his way to the #1 ranked Messiah Guild.
13
66,666 years: Advent of the Black Wizard (2021)
Based on the original series by Hwabong, adapted by Dopack and illustrated by BAEKSSE
In the prologue of 66,666 years: Advent of the Black Magicianreaders are given a bleak vision of a future dominated by Diablo Volpir, only to be sealed into a fate of regression by a coalition of twelve gods. Thus, Diablo Volpir becomes his former self, Jamie Welton, as he is raised in a noble and loving family that does not understand the phenomenal and unprecedented magical talent born into them. Despite starting from scratch as an adorable child, Jamie is undaunted and ready to take revenge on the gods who defeated him.
Like a revenge manhwa, 66,666 years: Advent of the Black Magician begins with less noble intentions, but Jamie’s charm is undeniable as he showcases his early talents. The manhwa is especially addictive and easy to learn, reminiscent of the popular magical isekai while finding impressive phases in your art styles to attract new readers.
12
The villain lives again (2020)
Based on the novel by Mint and illustrated by PEACHBERRY
Artezia Rosan dedicated her entire life to ensuring her brother became Emperor, committing countless crimes and ruining many lives through her genius schemes, all because of him. However, Artezia’s efforts only result in betrayal, and she is accused of murder, tortured, imprisoned, and branded a traitor after her brother gets what he wants. Filled with many regrets, but unable to change anything in the present, Artezia goes back in time, promising to help the mysterious Grand Duke Cedric who saved her and ensure her brother’s downfall.
Fans of The villain lives again you may also like The villain is a puppet, which follows a similar plot.
General, The villain lives again has a well-paced story, an intelligent and likeable protagonist and an antagonist who is easy to despise this makes Artezia’s revenge all the sweeter.
11
Viral hit (2019)
Written by Taejun Pak and illustrated by Kim Junghyun
In addition to gaining dedicated followers on the Webtoon platform, Viral success also received a recent anime adaptation on Crunchyroll, portraying its accessible yet fun premise. Hobin Yu is the series’ hero, surrounded by aspiring social media stars who, in his eyes, unfairly rake in enormous sums for the relatively mundane content they create. But In the process of calling out one of his bullies and accidentally live-streaming the ensuing fight, Hobin becomes an overnight sensationand he finds his hook as a social media star.
Like a revenge manhwa, Viral success he has built-in appeal due to its relatable premise of a bullied student fighting back against his bullies. Turning this anger against marginalization into a monetized issue wasn’t originally Hobin’s idea, but he seizes the opportunity nonetheless. Still, it paves the way for more exciting conflicts as he discovers his unexpected talents for fighting.
10
Depths of Malice (2021)
Written by Doori and illustrated by Paldu
Depths of Malice takes off when Rita switches bodies with Verta Alberthart. Although Rita’s life has been hell thus far, she refuses to simply pass out and die from the terminal illness that afflicts her body. Now in the body of the beautiful and influential daughter of the Alberhart family, Rita promises to find happiness at any cost, full of evil and willing to get rid of anyone who gets in her way.
Depths of Malice and another manhwa that is not afraid to present a manipulative and self-centered protagonist who knows exactly what he wants and is not afraid to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals.
9
Assassin Pedro (2023)
With clear influence drawn from John Wick, Assassin Pedro quickly secured its place as an excellent option for fans of revenge manhwa. Following the familiar premise of a manhwa protagonist returning to his prime to exact revenge on the Glory Club, his former employer, elderly terminal cancer patient Peter, is thrust back into the world of assassins after a hit is fired at him in his bookstore.
The result is a fascinating mix of over-the-top combat, brilliant action with Peter showing off his ability to think on his feet, and powerful, perfectly over-the-top fantasy entertainment, perfect for Dias Sakamoto fans.
8
The Return of the Disaster Class Hero (2021)
Based on the story by Sanji Jiksong, adapted by HEATS and illustrated by BGman
Geon Lee stars in this high-concept adventure from the creator of King of Tomb Raiders and Secret Playerwith This series offers spectacular visuals in its first chapters to attract readers who want shonen-style battles. Geon’s story begins as the thirteenth Zodiac, betrayed by his companions, with everything he distributed to his allies against his will, only to return seeking revenge. The Return of the Disaster Class Hero frees Geon after twenty years of dormancy, and despite his team being reunited to fight the calamities threatening the world, he turns his attention to them.
Like a revenge manhwa, The Return of the Disaster Class Hero is an especially action-packed series. Geon Lee’s lust for battle is only rivaled by his colossal appetite for lunch. For those who want equally intelligent and culturally savvy writing as Tomb Raider King, The Return of the Disaster Class Hero It’s a perfect addition to the reading list.
7
His Throne (2020)
Written and illustrated by SAM
Your throne revolves around Medea and Psyche, two ladies competing for the title of crown princess. Believing herself superior in every way, Medea feels betrayed when the crown prince, Eros, chooses Psyche to be his wife. Thus begins Medea’s plan to regain her rightful throne and title. However, the plot takes an unexpected turn when Medea and Psyche switch bodies after falling into the temple fountain. Although they clash at first, Medea and Psyche quickly realize that their true enemy is someone else.
Unlike other revenge manhwa which usually include romance in one form or another, Your throne chooses to focus on the duality between its two protagonists and their developing relationship.
6
Sword Master on the Roof (2020)
Based on the original novel by Power Holger, illustrated by Kim Euikwon
Se-young Tak stars as the meek and unforgiving mountain of flesh and hate in Rooftop Sword Masterone of the most daring manhwa of its decade. Unlike other stories of bullied teenagers, Se-young’s encounters cause him to be hospitalized and traumatized when he returns from a coma, initially resigning himself to hiding in his penthouse apartment after his parents die of agonizing form, setting itself on fire. But everything changes when a huge sword appears outside his apartmentwith Se-young’s journey hardly resembling Arthur Pendragon’s.
Se-young begins his journey of revenge with strength training, using the blade’s enormous weight to build muscle over time. Although implausible, the results are strange and incredible to behold, with him becoming a horrific muscular beast capable of massacring attackers and former tormentors. Rooftop Sword Master is a perfect revenge manhwa for those who want an antihero completely and viscerally consumed by his animus.
5
The villain turns the hourglass (2020)
Based on the novel by SANSOBEE and illustrated by Antstudio
The villain turns the hourglass It’s a classic of the revenge genre and a must-read for fans of the trope. The story follows Aria who, like many other protagonists of the manhwa, has the chance to travel through time and live life differently. In her first life, Aria was an all-around villain, known for endlessly mistreating her half-sister. However, as she is about to be executed, her meek younger sister, Mielle, reveals that she has been manipulating Aria the entire time, provoking her into ruining her reputation, which led to her punishment.
Now aware of Mielle’s little scheme, Aria decides to truly become the villain she was believed to be, outsmart Mielle, and save herself and her mother from her half-sister’s wicked plans.
4
I Tamed My Ex-Husband’s Mad Dog (2021)
Based on the novel by CMJM & Jkyum, illustrated by Jagae
With the protagonist becoming one of the most compelling manhwa antiheroes due to her multifaceted developments, I Tamed My Ex-Husband’s Mad Dog is an immediately gripping revenge story. The series follows typical regression plot elements, but with quick gratification for readers who want to see the villain Prince Michel, husband of protagonist Reinardt Lincke, get stabbed in the leg after Reinhardt is sent fifteen years into the past. The story picks up from here, with her taking the very young Wilhelm Cohlonna as her main ally and love interest.
I Tamed My Ex-Husband’s Mad Dog shows its protagonist taking proactive steps to prevent her victimization on her terms. Reinhardt Lincke is nowhere near being a perfect manhwa protagonist, and she doesn’t try to be. His actions resemble those of a yandere anti-hero with Wilhelm at his side, complemented by stunning art depicting his characteristically beautiful characters from an Otome series.
3
Gonna Kill That Sweet Demon (2021)
Based on the novel by ggul ggi and illustrated by ROSÉ
I will kill that sweet demon follows Chloe, an illegitimate daughter of the Garnache family who, after her mother’s death, suffers years of abuse until she is taken in by her uncle, Grand Duke Kairos Ludwig. However, the Duke has an ulterior motive for doing this and plans to use Chloe to trap the Emperor and kill him. Having never received such kindness before, Chloe easily falls for the Duke’s charms and allows him to manipulate her, but meets a regrettable end when she fulfills her role.
This series includes depictions of incest and violence.
Given a second chance at life, Chloe vows not to be swayed by the Duke’s sweet words the second time around. Far from petty revenge, I will kill that sweet demon is a mature, thought-provoking and truly moving story which addresses serious topics of trauma and preparedness.
2
Hero Killer (2021)
Written by Kkulbeol and illustrated by Beolkkul
Hero killer It’s stylish, action-packed, and beautifully drawn, with readers quickly adding this to their anime adaptation wish list. However, this revenge manhwa pits Ihwa, a villain, against the Hero Clan, a corrupt faction responsible for her sister, Yeon.
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Armed with multiple Gifts, a form of powers in Hero killerIhwa can absorb gifts from other users while demonstrating proficiency in many others, making her a force to be reckoned with in one of Webtoon’s most discussed continuous action manhwa.
1
The Taming of the Tyrant (2021)
Based on the novel by Yusoy and illustrated by Melting
Wanting to honor her family, Charlize Ronan unknowingly agreed to become a tool of the Emperor. Little did she know that the Emperor would literally turn her into a sword through a painful magical procedure. Now used as a weapon to kill and torture people against their will, Charlize begs for a chance at revenge and finds herself back in her old human body four hundred years ago. Charlize vows to destroy the empire this time, starting with replacing the emperor with a tyrant of her choosing.
Simple as it starts, The taming of the tyrant It quickly evolves into a twisted yet fascinating story with ethereal art that makes it worthy of being titled the best revenge manhwa.