The Ultimate Romance Manhwa List: Love, Drama, and Unforgettable Stories - Part 1
Romance manhwa has taken the world by storm with its gripping narratives, breathtaking artwork, and deeply emotional moments. Whether you are a fan of reincarnation stories, historical settings, or modern-day love, this list has something for everyone! Here’s a detailed breakdown of some of the best romance manhwa, including their author, status, and a thorough review of their stories.
1. Villains Are Destined to Die
Author: Gwon Gyeoeul (Story), SUOL (Art)
Status: Ongoing
Story Review:
This manhwa is a masterpiece in the villainess genre, filled with tension, tragedy, and self-discovery. The story follows Penelope Eckhart, who finds herself trapped in a brutal otome game where the heroine is fated to die unless she wins over one of the male leads. However, the difficulty level is cranked up to the extreme, and even the smallest mistake could result in her death. Unlike other villainess stories, this one carries a strong theme of survival rather than revenge, making it an emotional rollercoaster. Penelope’s resilience, intelligence, and gradual development into a strong female lead make this an unforgettable read.
2. Beware the Villainess
Author: Sola
Status: Complete
Story Review:
A refreshing twist to the usual isekai villainess trope, Beware the Villainess features a badass heroine, Melissa, who is determined to break free from the predictable, cliché romance setting. Melissa refuses to be the meek noblewoman and instead sets out to expose the true nature of her fiancé and other love interests. She is witty, unapologetically strong, and constantly delivers savage comebacks, making this one of the most enjoyable villainess manhwa. It offers humor, action, and a dash of romance while flipping typical romance tropes on their heads.
3. The Villainess Turns the Hourglass
Author: SanSobee
Status: Complete
Story Review:
Aria, the protagonist, starts as a selfish, spoiled girl but quickly transforms into one of the most cunning and intelligent female leads in manhwa history. After being executed, she is given a second chance when a mysterious hourglass rewinds time. Determined to exact revenge on those who wronged her, she plays the game of politics and deception masterfully. The story is filled with intricate schemes, character growth, and a romance that develops beautifully over time.
4. A Business Proposal
Author: Haehwa (Story), Perilla & Narak (Art)
Status: Complete
Story Review:
This modern romance manhwa, adapted into a K-drama, is filled with humor and swoon-worthy moments. Shin Ha-ri, an office worker, agrees to go on a blind date in place of her wealthy friend. To her surprise, the man she meets is none other than her company’s cold and handsome CEO, Kang Tae-moo. The fake identity scenario leads to countless hilarious misunderstandings and an electrifying romance. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and the story balances comedy and romance effortlessly.
5. Adelaide
Author: Chae Habin
Status: Complete
Story Review:
Adelaide, a young noblewoman, is tired of her monotonous life and seeks excitement. She gets her wish when she meets the powerful Duke Felix, a man desperate for a fiancée to escape political turmoil. What starts as a contractual engagement turns into a slow-burning romance filled with teasing, wit, and genuine affection. The protagonist’s lively personality and the Duke’s reserved nature make for an entertaining and heartwarming love story.
6. Good Day to Be a Dog
Author: Lee Hey
Status: Complete
Story Review:
A fresh take on romance, this manhwa follows Hana, who is cursed to turn into a dog every night. The only way to break the curse is to be kissed by the one she has feelings for—her cold and distant colleague, Jin Seo-won. The story blends humor, fantasy, and romance in a delightful way, making it both hilarious and touching. The character development and gradual romance between the leads make it a unique and must-read manhwa.
7. See You in My 19th Life
Author: Lee Hey
Status: Ongoing
Story Review:
This reincarnation romance manhwa explores the idea of remembering past lives and finding love through different lifetimes. The protagonist, Ban Ji-eum, has lived 18 lives and remembers each one. In her 19th life, she sets out to reunite with her childhood love, but things don’t go as expected. The story weaves together heartache, longing, and self-discovery, making it a deeply emotional and beautifully written tale.
8. Who Made Me a Princess
Author: Plutus (Story), Spoon (Art)
Status: Complete
Story Review:
This isekai manhwa follows Athanasia, who is reincarnated as a princess in a tragic novel where she is fated to be executed by her own father, the cold-hearted Emperor Claude. Determined to avoid her grim fate, she navigates palace life carefully, winning the affection of the emperor. The father-daughter dynamic is one of the best parts of the story, and the romance that develops later is heartwarming. The stunning artwork and emotional depth make this a standout manhwa.
9. Happy Marriage!?
Author: Enjouji Maki
Status: Complete
Story Review:
A classic romance manhwa about arranged marriage and slow-burning love, Happy Marriage!? follows Chiwa and Hokuto, who are forced into a contractual marriage due to family circumstances. What starts as a cold and awkward relationship gradually turns into a passionate and endearing love story. The mature themes and realistic character development make it one of the best in the romance genre.
10. Seasons of Blossom
Author: Hongduck and Nemone
Status: Ongoing
Story Review:
This manhwa stands out for its anthology-style storytelling, focusing on different love stories across various seasons. It beautifully portrays the complexities of young love, unspoken emotions, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. The interconnected stories provide depth and nostalgia, making it a deeply engaging read.
