The global rise ofSolo Levelinghas done more than cement Sung Jinwoo as one of manhwa’s most iconic protagonists, it has also drawn attention to South Korea’s rich webtoon and manhwa industry. Fast-paced storytelling, visually stunning battles, and protagonists who undergo jaw-dropping transformations are quickly becoming the hallmarks of this genre. Yet, many equally compelling series remain under the radar.
If fans are craving more manhwa that delivers the same thrilling blend of epic fights, supernatural stakes, and addictive progression arcs, these eight overlooked gems deserve a spot on the reading list.Each one offers a unique spin onSolo Leveling’sappeal, whether it’s a protagonist fueled by vengeance, a climb toward godhood, or an exploration of high-stakes martial arts worlds.
8The Warrior Returns
The Warrior Returnsfollows the story of a hero who was summoned to another world, saved it, and was then sent back to Earth, only to find himself unable to adjust to normal life. His descent into bitterness and rage sets the tone for a revenge-driven narrative that blends dark themes with explosive fantasy combat.
What makes this manhwa so gripping is its moral complexity. The protagonist is not a shining beacon of justice, he is deeply flawed, haunted by trauma, and willing to cross lines to achieve his goals. Much likeSolo Leveling, fans are hooked by his transformation and relentless drive, but here, the emotional cost is just as central as the fight scenes.
7Tower of God
Tower of Godoffers a completely different kind of thrillthanSolo Levelingbut retains that same addictive “what’s next?” energy. The story follows Bam, a boy who enters a mysterious tower in search of his best friend. Each floor presents unique rules, trials, and deadly opponents, creating a constant sense of high-stakes progression.
While the art style evolves significantly over time, the real draw is its deep world-building and intricate character relationships. The tower’s politics, alliances, and betrayals keep fans invested as much as the action. LikeSolo Leveling, there is a main mystery that slowly unravels, with power-ups and battles that feel earned rather than handed to the protagonist.
6Return of the Blossoming Blade
Return of the Blossoming Bladedelivers martial arts action with a protagonist who’s as cunning as he is deadly. After dying in battle, the legendary swordsman Cheongmyeong is reincarnated hundreds of years later, only to discover his once-great sect is now in shambles. Determined to restore its former glory, he uses his skills and wit to whip the new generation into shape.
This manhwa blends humor with jaw-dropping fight choreography, making it both exciting and unexpectedly funny. Cheongmyeong’s sarcastic, no-nonsense personality is a refreshing break from the stoic hero archetype, and his path to rebuilding the sect is along-term progression arc similar toSolo Leveling’sclimb to the top.
5The God of High School
For pure, unrelenting action,The God of High Schoolis hard to beat. The series begins as a martial arts tournament where fighters from across Korea compete, but it quickly evolves into a supernatural epic involving gods, mythical creatures, and world-shaking powers. The escalation of scale is a major part of its charm.
While its pacing can feel breakneck, the energy is unmatched. Every fight feels cinematic, with detailed choreography and flashy techniques that rival the most intense moments inSolo Leveling. Underneath all the spectacle, there is also a story of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth that keeps the stakes from feeling hollow.
4Girls of the Wild’s
On the surface,Girls of the Wild’smight seem like a school romance with a martial arts twist, but it is much more layered than that. The story follows Jaegu, a boy who enrolls in a formerly all-girls school known for its elite fighters. What begins as comedy and awkward high school moments grows into an inspiring tale about overcoming fear and building confidence.
While it does not have the monster-hunting premise ofSolo Leveling, it shares the same theme of personal transformation. Jaegu’s journey from timid underdog to capable fighter mirrors Jinwoo’s rise in a more grounded setting, and the character relationships are every bit as engaging as the action.
3Doom Breaker
Doom Breakeris a masterclass in the “second chance” trope. Zephyr, humanity’s last warrior, dies in a battle against the gods, only to be sent back in time with all his memories intact. Determined to change the future, he takes on enemies both mortal and divine, climbing the ladder of power at a relentless pace.
The series thrives on tension, as Zephyr balances long-term strategy with brutal combat sequences. LikeSolo Leveling, every victory feels like a step toward an impossible goal, and the stakes remain sky-high from start to finish. It is a must-read for anyone who loves seeing a protagonist outsmart and overpower their foes.
2Eleceed
If fans enjoyedSolo Leveling’smix of action and lighthearted moments,Eleceedmight be the perfect follow-up. The story centers on Jiwoo, a kindhearted boy with super-speed, and his partnership with a grumpy, powerful man trapped in a cat’s body. Together, they navigate a hidden world of superhumans while facing increasingly dangerous challenges.
The series shines because of its balance, as intense battles are punctuated by laugh-out-loud humor and heartfelt character moments. Jiwoo’s growth from a naïve do-gooder to a formidable fighter scratches the same itch as Jinwoo’s journey, but with an added dose of warmth and found-family dynamics.
1Legend of the Northern Blade
IfSolo Levelingis about climbing toward godlike power,Legend of the Northern Bladeis about reclaiming a lost legacy. The story follows Jin Mu-Won, the last survivor of a destroyed martial arts clan, who grows up in isolation before venturing into a dangerous world to take revenge on those responsible for his clan’s fall.
This manhwa stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and beautifully choreographed fights. It is slower paced thanSolo Leveling, but the buildup pays off in emotional and action-packed payoffs. Jin Mu-Won’s journey is less about raw power gains and more about mastering skill, strategy, and the burden of his family’s history.
