Once upon a time, Korean manhwa was often overlooked in the vast entertainment landscape, despite its rich storytelling and captivating narratives. Fortunately, this trend is changing as promising titles are beginning to receive the animation adaptations they rightfully deserve, thanks in part to the efforts of platforms like Crunchyroll.
As the popularity of webtoons continues to rise, the adaptation of these stories into anime is becoming increasingly commonplace. The forthcoming Winter 2025 anime season demonstrates this shift remarkably well, offering fans an array of titles to look forward to.
Updated on December 22, 2024 by Mark Sammut: As we wrap up Fall 2024, curiosity peaks regarding Winter 2025’s lineup of manhwa anime. Notably, one highly anticipated title stands out: Solo Leveling is set to make its much-anticipated return.
Winter 2025 will feature a singular manhwa-based anime, and it promises to be significant. The new season of Solo Leveling is gearing up, and the teasers for the initial episodes indicate that it will uphold the high standards set by its predecessor. Our hero, Sung Jin-woo, is on a journey to become the universe’s most powerful hunter and is just beginning to unleash his shadow army. There’s little doubt that audiences are keen to dive into the second season, and the consistency in storytelling is certainly not a drawback.
Solo Leveling Season 2: Arise from the Shadow will be available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
Tower of God: Return of the Prince
MyAnimeList: 6.70
- Japanese Title: God’s Way: The Quest for the Lord
- Studio: The Answer Studio
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
The inaugural season of “Tower of God”faced its fair share of scrutiny, with many fans expressing disappointment given the beloved nature of the source material. This season introduced “Return of the Prince,”and while the shift to a new studio and animation style raised hopes, the result was ultimately underwhelming.
Despite being watchable with its standout moments, particularly in episode 5, “Return of the Prince”fails to capitalize on its predecessor’s strengths. The pacing feels rushed, leading to insufficient world-building that can alienate new viewers. Major plot points pass without proper emphasis, causing emotional beats to feel flat.
Animation quality has also taken a hit, with the new traditional aesthetic failing to impress compared to the first season’s distinctive style. For a series as notable as “Tower of God,”the lack of quality in the adaptation feels significant—a missed opportunity for a story that deserves better.
True Beauty
MyAnimeList: 6.59
Currently airing, True Beauty has concluded in a somewhat unnecessary manner. While the original webtoon by Yaongyi enjoyed immense popularity, the adaptation feels less impactful, particularly as it follows a well-received 2020 K-Drama.
True Beauty revolves around Jugyeong, whose life dramatically changes after mastering the art of makeup, transforming her reputation at school. The series bravely addresses beauty standards and social pressures but often stumbles as Jugyeong struggles to resonate with audiences, affecting overall engagement.
Tower of God Season 2: Workshop Battle
MyAnimeList: 7.05
- Japanese Title: Kami no Tou: Koubou-sen
- Studio: The Answer Studio
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll
Continuing directly from “Return of the Prince,”Workshop Battle doesn’t offer much freshness. This series struggles with animation issues that undermine its action-heavy narrative. While the battles are meant to captivate, they often lack the necessary dynamism and excitement.
Despite this, “Workshop Battle”presents a more engaging storyline as it quickly immerses viewers in the action with familiar characters and established rivalries. While it may not be groundbreaking, fans who endured “Return of the Prince”may find some enjoyment here.
Semantic Error
MyAnimeList: 7.23
Semantic Error shines as a romantic Boys Love tale but falters in translation as its anime mostly serves as a brief overview rather than a standalone narrative. The four-episode series highlights key developments in the relationship between Sangwoo and Jaeyoung but lacks depth, making familiarity with the original manhwa essential for full enjoyment.
The Girl Downstairs
MyAnimeList: 7.69
Although produced by a Chinese studio, The Girl Downstairs merits discussion as one of the quality adaptations of a manhwa. This romance follows college freshman Joon and former idol Duna, exploring themes of reinvention amidst the pressures of idol culture. With 10-minute episodes, viewers can swiftly binge the eight-part series while getting invested in Joon and Duna’s budding relationship.
Nobility
MyAnimeList: 6.89
Crunchyroll’s initiative to adapt popular manhwa for anime has yielded significant titles, notably Noblesse. This series chronicles Cadis Etrama Di Raizel, a noble who awakens in contemporary Korea after 820 years, clashing with powerful corporations while attempting to adjust to modern life.
Despite its fascinating premise, the adaptation struggles with character portrayals, altering fan favorites significantly and impacting their likability. While entertaining, Noblesse can be hindered by inconsistent character development.
Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady With The Lamp
MyAnimeList: 7.22
While Doctor Elise faced tough competition in Winter 2024, it stands as a respectable adaptation within the isekai genre. The protagonist reincarnates on Earth after dying in her previous life as a doctor in a fantasy kingdom. However, after another tragic turn, she finds herself reincarnated back into her former self, which adds depth to the narrative.
Though the premise becomes convoluted, Elise’s journey is centered around her medical aspirations, providing insight into her character and background. However, the series struggles during its latter half, resulting in weaker plot threads and characters.
A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special
MyAnimeList: 7.08
Dropping into a season filled with fantasy-themed anime, A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special faces stiff competition but holds promise thanks to a compelling opening episode. Initially presenting a gripping scenario of Desir, a powerful mage thrust into a second chance after a catastrophic failure, it quickly pivots into familiar academy territory.
Despite his likable nature, Desir’s transition through the typical school setting lacks depth, resulting in a somewhat predictable narrative. However, he is well-supported by two appealing characters, Romantica and Pram, hinting at potential for growth in future seasons.
The God Of High School
MyAnimeList: 7.07
Renowned animation studio MAPPA has brought to life The God of High School, a manhwa adaptation that draws attention for its high-energy visuals and stellar soundtrack. The story follows Mori Jin as he competes in an epic tournament, resulting in breathtaking fights that showcase MAPPA’s incredible animation prowess.
However, the adaptation has not been without its faults; detractors have noted the series skips substantial world-building, leading to a lack of emotional depth. The action may captivate viewers, yet without context, it sometimes feels hollow.
Tower Of God (Season 1)
MyAnimeList: 7.56
Aside from Solo Leveling, Tower of God stands as one of the most well-known manhwa adaptations, although divisive among fans. The series intricately weaves action, humor, and character development into an engaging narrative.
However, critiques of the adaptation point to the simplification of character arcs and the inadequate world-building, which somewhat dilutes its emotional impact. Though it sparked interest among new viewers, fans of the manhwa may find it lacking in critical areas.
Nonetheless, this anime provides decent animation quality and a riveting secondary cast, offering moments of entertainment while setting the stage for future storylines—albeit imperfectly.
Viral Hit
MyAnimeList: 7.33
Viral Hit begins with an intensive introduction, showcasing a raw view of school violence that might be hard for some viewers to digest. However, as it unfolds, the narrative transitions into a more engaging exploration of its protagonist, Hobin Yoo, who grapples with his bleak circumstances.
Hobin is a complex character whose journey can evoke sympathy, yet his behavior raises some eyebrows. Fortunately, he finds companionship in Jihyeok and Gaeul, enhancing his character development through their dynamics. The series excels in its action sequences, which balance intensity and clarity while showcasing the protagonist’s growth.
Why Raeliana Ended Up At The Duke’s Mansion
MyAnimeList: 7.51
Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion presents a unique isekai narrative about Park Eunha, who finds herself transported into a fictional story with a dire fate. The comedic twists and engaging storyline of Raeliana’s attempts to rewrite her fate provide delightful moments and charm.
While the adaptation effectively captures the essence of its source material, the character development fluctuates throughout the series. Raeliana’s character arc showcases her evolution from a proactive heroine to someone struggling with emotional turmoil, which may frustrate some viewers.
Lookism
MyAnimeList: 7.46
With nearly a decade of serialization, Lookism has become a beloved webtoon before its anime adaptation was launched by Netflix. The plot follows Park Hyung Suk, a bullied teen who mysteriously wakes up in a new body, allowing him to experience life from a fresh perspective.
The series, though predictable, provides a heartfelt exploration of identity and self-worth, showcasing Park’s complexity amidst typical tropes. While the manhwa has more depth, this adaptation serves as a sensible introduction to its themes for new viewers.
Solo Leveling
MyAnimeList: 8.32
Set to dominate Winter 2024, Solo Leveling, based on Chugong’s acclaimed manhwa, is positioned as a cornerstone in the genre. With its portrayal of a dungeon-infused world where the protagonist, Sung Jin-woo, rises from the weakest hunter to an unrivaled force, the series promises engaging storytelling alongside spectacular action sequences.
As the adaptation of a massively popular manhwa, Solo Leveling carries considerable expectations, with potential repercussions for future adaptations in the industry. With its compelling narrative and high production values, this anime is set to elevate the standard for future manhwa adaptations.
As the trend of adapting manhwa into anime continues to grow, audiences can anticipate more quality productions emerging in the future. Let’s take a look at some highly awaited titles:
- Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint – This highly anticipated adaptation, licensed by Crunchyroll and produced by Aniplex, is derived from Sing Shong’s popular manhwa. It depicts a story where the protagonist realizes a novel he loved has merged with reality, thrusting him into an action-packed adventure filled with intrigue.
- The Boxer – This notable series, from the pen of Jung Ji-Hoon, is a rarity among sports anime adaptations. Produced by South Korean studio Xtorm and expected to premiere in 2025, it marks a fresh entry into the anime landscape with its boxing-themed narrative.
While not technically a manhwa, The Beginning After the End is also set to receive an anime adaptation, signaling exciting developments in the realm of webtoons.
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