What is manhwa?

Manhwa (만화) is the general Korean term for comics and print cartoons. Outside of Korea, the term usually refers specifically to South Korean comics.

Manhwa has been influenced by and has influenced visual and narrative styles of other comics media, particularly Japanese manga. However, manhwa has distinct characteristics.

• Reading Direction: Unlike manga, which is read right-to-left, traditional manhwa is read left-to-right, like Western comics. However, digital manhwa often utilizes a vertical scrolling format, optimized for smartphones.

• Art Style: While there are many diverse art styles in manhwa, some common features include a focus on expressive characters, detailed backgrounds, and dynamic action sequences. The aesthetics often draw influence from Korean art and culture.

• Themes and Genres: Manhwa encompasses a vast array of genres, including Romance, Fantasy, Action, Slice of Life, Horror, and Historical Drama. Webtoons, a popular form of digital manhwa, have further broadened the scope of genres and themes.

• Webtoons: A significant portion of modern manhwa is published digitally as webtoons. These are designed for easy reading on smartphones, typically with a vertical scrolling format and often in full color.

• Cultural Influence: Manhwa reflects Korean culture, history, and social issues. It can explore themes such as family relationships, social hierarchies, and the challenges of modern life in Korea.