The Joseon Dynasty was the longest Imperial Dynasty in Korea that dominated the peninsula for over 500 years. Its customs, traditions, and culture are a relic of the past and, although civilization has moved into a more modernized mindset, that doesn’t stop them from learning more about this enchanting period in time.
This correlatesstraight into historical manhwa, which is a popular genre among many readers. The Joseon Dynasty is one specific period which has been retold in many stories and they each range from romance to action, or fantasy. These stories take readers to a new era where they can not only learn more about the culture, but also witness the difference in lives when it comes to society and class. Here are some manhwa that are set in the Joseon Dynasty that are known for their enigmatic flair and thrilling plotlines.
Gabi Name and Will Bright (Story) Yooani (Art)
2020
129
Status
Ongoing
Master Villainess The Invicible!follows a second-rate author from Korea who gets reincarnated into a famous martial arts novel as the villainess. Now living as Haewon Tang, she has only one thing on her mind and that is to find worthy allies, survive her death, and save her clan.
If readers are looking for something different within the typical culture surrounding women in the Joseon Dynasty, this manhwa is the perfect option. Haewonuses her knowledge from her past lifeto establish herself as a woman and not succumb to anyone. All the characters are extremely likeable in this historical blend of martial arts, fantasy, and love.
Dopamine and Kusa (Story) Kim Tae-Hyung (Art)
88
Completed
When an average guy from Korea gets reincarnated into the body of Grand Prince Jin-seong of the Joseon dynasty, one would imagine life to be great. It’s unfortunately far from it as Prince Jin-seong is the younger brother of one of the most tyrannical kings in history.
From the political struggles, to the rising mayhem that surrounds his new life, Prince Jin-seong brings a modern outlook to the cultural aspect of the Joseon Dynasty and helps change all the harsh traditions that were imposed.My Royal Awakeningwill also be enjoyable for readers who prefer gorgeous art, engaging plots, and heartwarming moments.
2019
107
In this epic retelling ofHans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Little Mermaid’, this story is set in Joseon in the year 1926. The nation is under colonial Japanese rule and Su-a Heo is a simple handmaiden that spends her free time swimming in the sea. She comes across a wounded independence fighter, Uihyeon Kang, but after nursing him back to health, an unfortunate incident causes her to lose her voice.
Whale Star: The Gyeongseong Mermaidis a tale that is not for the weak. The themes of this manhwa contain heavy references from history and, together with love, loss, revenge, and identity, readers may either come to love this story or vehemently hate it for the tragedy that constitutes it.
130
When Yona gets sucked into the gameConcubine Walkthrough, she practically has her hands full dealing with the cruel king, his nasty concubines, and the various political plots to get rid of her. Her only way out of the game is to become Queen, but her competition is deadly.
Although the plot is set in a game world, the region is developed after the Joseon era and readers can expect to see a lot of similarities in the culture and practices. This is especially true with the numerous consorts the Emperor had, and the tradition women have to abide by.
Gukpong and Kim Puluk (Story) Hong Sanggi (Art)
2023
83
When an out-of-date inventor from modern Korea gets reincarnated as a Prince in the Joseon period, it’s a dream come true. There’s no one to ridicule his eccentric hobby andbeing born with a golden spoonputs him at the top of the food chain.
However, his life as Prince Hyang is far from easy when our protagonist remembers the mark his father left on history. Thus, without trying to make too much of a change in history, Hyang decides to become the Crown Prince and make Joseon more advanced.Black Corporation: Joseonis a great read for those who enjoy ‘nerding’ out over anything historical.
Dopamine and Kang Mikang (Story) CreativeSUMM (Art)
2021
146
Based on historical accounts of Emperor Yi San and Noble Consort Deok Im,TheRed Sleevetells the tragic but heartwarming love story of Joseon’s most famous couple. The story is told from the viewpoint of Deok Im, who was the only Court Lady before she caught the attention of Crown Prince Yi San.
Caught in a romance that was forbidden, the two of them defied all rules and traditions, choosing to fight for their love and find their own happiness. This epic love story is bound to make readers cry as history was never kind to the pure love that these two souls shared.
2022
60
The Fantastic Spinsters' Association of Joseonbrings a little something unconventional to this rigid period in time. The ladies of the Spinster’s Association couldn’t care less about finding a husband as their most pressing matter in life is to make money and solve crimes.
From a strong, independent womanthat goes against the status quo, readers may find this story to be a breath of fresh air amidst the many turgid plots that take place within the Joseon period.
aheuedal (Story & Art)
116
Set against the backdrop of a fantastical version of the Joseon Dynasty, the Kingdom of Yeol is a divine country blessed by the Gods. The twenty princes have been granted special powers and have been trained since birth to compete for the throne. However, unbeknownst to other princes, the Fourth Prince Jeok-yeon harbours a very dangerous secret that could be considered treason.
With a dramatic plot, in-depth characters, and tear-jerking moments,Mystic Princesets a new tone for the Joseon era in this magical world, and as readers dive into the story, they may find that its beauty lies within the tragedy of each Prince’s life.
