Top 13 Ranked Idol Manhwa You Need to Read

Overview

The captivating idol genre in anime and manhwa brings forth themes of joy and energy while also revealing the tough realities within the industry.
These manhwa delve into unique narratives involving time travel and unforeseen challenges, illustrating the idols’ journeys toward stardom.
Core themes such as friendship, love, and personal growth resonate throughout these series, drawing readers into their drama-filled tales.

The idol genre stands out as a vibrant and beloved segment of anime and manga culture, becoming a defining characteristic of the community. The eye-catching artwork and memorable songs and dances associated with idols create an engaging experience for fans exploring this genre.

While idols frequently appear in anime and manga, their representation in manhwa is notably rich and diverse. Regardless of their country of origin, stories featuring idol culture grant readers insight into an industry that, despite its lively exterior, conceals a darker side. The narratives often address critical issues including abuse, mental health struggles, and obsession.

Updated on December 23, 2024, by Ahmed Rehan Nasir: Heavily inspired by South Korea’s vibrant K-pop scene, idol manhwa encompass an array of narratives and themes. While the central storyline may vary, each series paints a picture of the industry’s harsh realities. Some titles explore the notion of second chances, while others provide a candid portrayal of the cutthroat music scene in South Korea. For avid readers seeking fresh content, this list has been updated with additional compelling idol manhwa.

13. I Became The Youngest Member Of Top Idol

Awakening At 17 For A Second Chance At Fame

Do Seohan as he appears in the I Became the Youngest Member of Top Idol manhwa

Illustrated by: Mattgom
Genres: Drama, Reincarnation
Completed: No
Where To Read: VyManga

Idols are often depicted in anime and manhwa as epitomes of positivity and exuberance. Yet, I Became the Youngest Member of Top Idol starkly contrasts this perception, revealing the ruthless nature of the idol industry, particularly regarding age. The protagonist, Do Saehon, faces rejection from an idol competition at 25, deemed too old, only to find himself mysteriously transported to his 17-year-old self just before the competition begins.

12. Second Try Idol

A Second Go At Debuting

Illustrated by: Tinta
Genres: Fantasy, Slice Of Life, Drama
Completed: No
Where To Read: VyManga

Second Try Idol embodies the essence of the idol genre, exploring familiar themes of second chances and the struggles faced within the music industry. However, this manhwa distinguishes itself with unique character details, like Hyunwoo’s habit of concealing his face due to a burn scar from his previous life. The narrative doesn’t just dwell on idol-related hardships but also intricately weaves in his personal traumas and insecurities, leading to significant character development.

11. My Bias Is Showing?!

From High School Teacher To Filming With Their Favorite Idol

Na Aejoon And Siyeol In My Bias Is Showing

Illustrated by: Cereal
Genres: Boys Love, Romance, Workplace
Completed: Yes (46 Episodes, including extras)
Where To Read: Tappytoon

With idol culture firmly embedded in manhwa, My Bias is Showing captures the fantasy of meeting a beloved idol. High school teacher Na Aejoon experiences this firsthand when his school is chosen as the filming location for a show starring his favorite singer, Choi Siyeol. When Siyeol invites Aejoon to co-star, he faces the dual challenge of performing on screen and navigating his burgeoning romantic feelings for the idol.

10. Secret Playlist

Two Idols, One Secret, And A Music Career

Illustrated by: Eiff
Genres: Drama, Romance
Completed: Yes (107 Episodes)
Where To Read: Webtoon

The theme of romance between a regular person and a superstar is frequent in manhwa, yet Secret Playlist offers a refreshing twist by focusing on two idols of contrasting musical styles. Main character Hanju leads a double life as a cover artist, quietly balancing her college existence with her secret identity. Her world collides when Levi, a rising star from a boy band, uncovers her secret and proposes they collaborate, complicating her life even further.

9. Second Life Millionaire

One More Shot At Making It Big

Do Shiyoon as he appears in the Second Life Millionaire manhwa

Illustrated by: Meka
Genres: Drama, Slice of Life
Completed: No
Where To Read: Tappytoon

In a plot reminiscent of I Became the Youngest Member of Top Idol, Second Life Millionaire features protagonist Do Shiyoon, who travels back in time before becoming an idol. Unlike Saehon, Shiyoon boasts experience with a boy band, but their lack of recognition weighs heavily on him, culminating in his demise from an accident. After returning to his 17-year-old self, Shiyoon is determined to seize this chance to rectify past mistakes and revitalize his idol career.

8. The Path Of A Star

Fame, Success, And The Issues That Come With It

Gyeol-woo and Gyoura as they appear in The Path of a Star

Illustrated by: Yeon Og
Genres: Boys Love
Completed: No
Where To Read: Tappytoon

While I Became the Youngest Top Idol explores the fallout from losing an idol’s status, The Path of a Star illustrates how the pressure intensifies once success is achieved. Following Gyeol-woo’s rise as the leader of the boy band Pale Green, the narrative reveals his internal struggles with self-doubt and the burden of expectations. Thankfully, support arrives from Gyoura, a former idol, aiding in his emotional journey. This captivating Boys Love manhwa is further enhanced by its stunning illustrations.

7. From Acting Genius to Top Idol!

A Second Chance At Life, But With a Catch

Illustrated by: Ajang
Genres: Drama, Time Travel
Completed: No
Where To Read: VyManga

From Acting Genius to Top Idol presents a unique narrative twist within the genre. After a successful actor dies in a tragic accident, he is granted another chance to reclaim his fame, but with an unexpected stipulation: he must first achieve idol success. This series creatively combines the typical idol tropes with elements of the entertainment industry, ensuring a fresh perspective for the audience.

6. The Glass

Fulfilling A Life’s Promise

Illustrated by: Chang Hoonik
Genres: Girls Love, Romance, Drama
Completed: No
Where To Read: VyManga, Pocket Comics

Friendships play a critical role in the idol industry, often influenced by the contrasting life paths of friends. In The Glass, the idol Suni rekindles her friendship with Lara, appointing her as the manager for their girl group, The Glass. Amidst this newfound success, Suni aspires to fulfill a childhood promise to marry Lara, adding depth and emotion to their story.

5. Starlight Scandal

An Enticing Affair Between An Actor and an Idol

Illustrated by: KR
Genres: Drama, Romance, Boys Love
Completed: Yes
Where To Read: VyManga

As suggested by its title, Starlight Scandal unfolds around a scandal threatening the career of actor Eunseong, leading to a strategic partnership with a member of an idol group. The playful facade between the actor and the idol reveals underlying emotions, as the characters begin to genuinely connect, making the narrative complex and engaging. This manhwa stands out due to its distinctive character dynamics and vibrant artwork.

4. Monochrome Rumor

Waking Up In The Body Of An Infamous Idol

Illustrated by: Momoko
Genres: Boys Love, Drama
Completed: No
Where To Read: Tappytoon

Monochrome Rumor follows Hajin, who unexpectedly wakes up in the body of his late friend Shiyeon, an idol known for an unsavory reputation. Tasked with caring for Shiyeon’s sister while dealing with the fallout of his friend’s past, Hajin resolves to improve Shiyeon’s tarnished image. This manhwa artfully explores the complexities of fame and redemption.

3. Debut Or Die

Success Is A Matter Of Survival

Park Moondae And His Idol Members In Debut Or Die!

Illustrated by: Soheun
Genres: Drama, Fantasy
Completed: No
Where To Read: Tapas

Debut or Die encapsulates the quintessential idol narrative of a character thrust into the competitive world of idol-dom. Ryu Gunwoo, the main character, discovers that he must succeed as an idol to avoid an impending death, despite lacking any prior skills in the field. After an inebriated blackout, he awakens with a new identity and the daunting prospects of participating in a high-stakes survival program called Idol Inc.

2. No Longer A Heroine

Being Framed And Losing Everything

Lisa Cheon And Another Male Lead In No Longer A Heroine

Illustrated by: Maenggi Ki
Genres: Drama, Love Triangle, Coming-Of-Age, Redemption Arc
Completed: Yes (111 Episodes)
Where To Read: Webtoon

No Longer a Heroine confronts intense themes of downfall and redemption. The narrative follows Lisa Cheon, who transitions from national treasure to scandal-ridden persona after being falsely accused of drug addiction. Struggling to reclaim her status, Lisa’s journey intersects with her ex-boyfriend as they deal with the complexities of fame and personal growth. This thought-provoking manhwa diverges from the typical rising star tale to depict the harsh realities of falling from grace.

1. So I Married The Anti-Fan

Offering The Other Cheek To The Hater

Geunyeong Lee and Who Koon in So I Married The Anti-Fan

Illustrated by: Soheun
Genres: Drama, Fantasy
Completed: Yes (88 Episodes)
Where To Read: Webtoon

So I Married the Anti-Fan presents a charming narrative set against the backdrop of idol culture. Following a storyline that has also gained a K-Drama adaptation, the tale centers on Geunyeong Lee and Who Joon, characters marked by their stubbornness yet destined to connect. Geunyeong grapples with a midlife crisis while aiming to dismantle Who Joon’s beloved image, only to find their interactions revealing more than expected. This series effectively balances elements of romance and industry pressures, making it a delightful pick for idol manhwa enthusiasts.

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