Webtoon-based series to binge-watch this weekend
In South Korea, there's an unspoken formula that virtually ensures a TV show's success — webtoon adaptation.
Webtoon-based series are seen as a surefire way to captivate audiences, with their out-of-the-box concepts, quirky characters and built-in fan base from the original webtoon. These adaptations often lead to series that resonate deeply with viewers and quickly capture global attention.
Here are some celebrated webtoon adaptations that have made viewers cry and laugh, offering a weekend binge-worthy experience.
'Light Shop' on Disney+
Adapted from a work by Kang Full, one of Korea's most celebrated cartoonists, the gripping fantasy-horror series "Light Shop" delves into the mysteries behind a light shop that attracts a peculiar group of people.
This eight-part series brims with moments that are both perplexing and terrifying, leading up to a shocking ending that will leave viewers teary-eyed.
Starring the Hallyu sensation Ju Ji-hoon, known for his roles in Netflix's "Kingdom" and "The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call," alongside Park Bo-young and Seol-hyun, the series promises to take its audience on an emotional rollercoaster of horrifying and heartwarming moments.
'Misaeng: Incomplete Life' on Netflix
A poignant exploration of young Koreans navigating the realities of the corporate world, "Misaeng: Incomplete Life" offers an evocative narrative of their complex transitions into adulthood.
Adapted from veteran cartoonist Yoon Tae-ho's webtoon of the same name, the series follows Geu-rae, played by Im Si-wan, who abandons his dreams of becoming a professional Go player to join the corporate grind.
This critically acclaimed TV series, which bagged three Baeksang Arts Awards — including best TV director, best actor, and best new actor — has been praised for its authentic portrayal of office life.
The "Misaeng" soundtrack also features unforgettable songs, such as Yi Sung-yol's "Fly" and Bol4's reimagining of "Milestone," enriching the heart-rending viewing experience.
'Divorce Attorney Shin' on Tving, Netflix
Starring Cho Seung-woo as pianist-turned-lawyer Sung-han, "Divorce Attorney Shin" explores the human stories within the complex world of divorce.
Adapted from a popular Kakao Webtoon, the drama veers away from the typical legal thriller and instead leans into a deeply emotional narrative.
Rather than focusing on sensationalising divorce, the series unfolds with a quiet yet powerful emotional resonance, examining the human condition with compassion and understanding.
The series strikes a delicate balance, offering warmth and introspection that will leave you reflecting long after the credits roll.
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When I first read the manga, I was completely drawn into its unique atmosphere—how it captures the abnormal side of everyday summer life, quietly existing right next to the normal. Even though the characters live like they're walking a tightrope and have long left "normal" behind, that same unchanged normal life is still waiting for them at school. I truly, truly love this world and its atmosphere. I'll do my very best to help bring that feeling to the anime. A hit horror manga series about an ordinary high school boy, Yoshiki, who experiences various mysterious incidents in his life with Hikaru, a mysterious being who imitates his best friend Hikaru Indo. The story of "whatever it is" and the boy's madness has garnered significant attention, making it a must-see anime film. In a certain village Since their childhood, they have grown up together. Yoshiki and Hikaru, childhood friends. the sun shining down on them the chirping sound of a crypto tympana facialis Ice cream on the way home Laughing over trivial things One day in summer, no different from any other day ...... You're not Hikaru after all, are you? Half a year ago, Hikaru went missing in the mountains. A week later, he came back on a whim. The voice, the figure, the thing that looked like Hikaru What was stirring inside... "Hikaru is no longer with us. ...... if that's the case." Starting the days with "something" in the form of a friend, The "same as usual" everyday life. But at the same time... Strange incidents begin to plague the village. Falling into the unknown "something" The curtain rises on a coming-of-age horror story. Original story: Based on the comic "The Summer Hikaru Died" by Mokumokuren, originally serialized in the YOUNG ACE UP published by KADOKAWA Director/Series Composition: Ryohei Takeshita Character Design/Chief Animation Director: Yuichi Takahashi DORODORO Animator: Masanobu Hiraoka Animation Production: CygamesPictures Copyrights must be indicated when posting or using the image materials. Original work information Title: "The Summer Hikaru Died Author: Mokumokuren Previously published: Volumes 1-5 (Kadokawa Comics A)
