Webtoons have become a goldmine for Korean dramas and films in recent years. Many beloved webtoon stories are being brought to life on screen, attracting both fans of the original comics and new audiences. This year, several webtoons are set to be adapted into films, ranging from fantasy to comedy. Here’s a look at four upcoming Korean films based on webtoons that you should keep an eye on.
Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint
Portrait of script reading for the film Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint (instagram.com/lotteent.movie)
One of the most anticipated adaptations is Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint. This webtoon, which originated from a web novel by Sing N Song and illustrated by Sleepy-C, has amassed a massive following. The English version alone has over 300 million views, while the Indonesian version boasts 92 million views.
The story follows Kim Dok Ja, a devoted reader of a novel titled Three Ways to Survive in a Ruined World. One day, he finds himself transported into the novel’s world just as he finishes reading its final chapter. As the only person familiar with the novel’s plot, Kim Dok Ja must navigate this new reality alongside the story’s original protagonist, Yoo Joong Hyuk.
The film adaptation, titled Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, features a star-studded cast including Lee Min Ho as Yoo Joong Hyuk and Ahn Hyo Seop as Kim Dok Ja. Directed by Kim Byung Woo, known for The Terror Live and Take Point, this movie is expected to captivate audiences with its unique premise and high-stakes adventure.
New Humanity War: Resurrection Man
Portrait of script reading for the film New Humanity War: Resurrection Man (instagram.com/lotteent.movie)
Another exciting adaptation is New Humanity War: Resurrection Man, based on the webtoon Reawakened Man by Chae Yong Taek and Kim Jae Han. This action-packed webtoon has garnered 91.8 million views in its Indonesian version.
The story centers on Seok Hwan, a job seeker with a strong sense of justice. After witnessing a loan shark harassing a student, Seok Hwan intervenes and is killed in the process. Miraculously, he resurrects three days later and discovers he has the power to come back to life. Seok Hwan uses his newfound ability to fight crime and bring justice to those in need.
Koo Kyo Hwan leads the cast as Seok Hwan, with Shin Seung Ho, Kang Ki Young, Kim Sia, and Kim Sung Ryung playing key roles. This film promises to deliver thrilling action and an inspiring tale of heroism.
Revelations
Portrait of reading the script for the film Revelations (instagram.com/netflixkcontent)
Revelations is another webtoon making its way to the big screen. Created by Yeon Sang Ho and Choi Gyu Seok, this webtoon blends suspense and drama. Yeon Sang Ho, known for directing Train to Busan and the recent drama Parasyte: The Grey, is adapting his own work into a film.
The plot follows Min Chan, a pastor in a small village, and Yeon Hee, a detective. Their paths cross due to a missing person case involving Min Chan’s son. Believing he has received a divine revelation, Min Chan suspects an ex-convict who has joined his church of being the kidnapper. Yeon Hee, also investigating the case, finds herself aligned with Min Chan’s mission.
With Ryu Jun Yeol as Min Chan and Shin Hyun Been as Yeon Hee, Revelations promises to be a gripping and emotionally charged film.
My Daughter is a Zombie
My Daughter is a Zombie movie casting poster (instagram.com/itsnew_movie)
On the lighter side, My Daughter is a Zombie offers a comedic twist on the zombie genre. Based on the webtoon by Lee Yun Chang, this story follows a father’s efforts to care for his daughter, who has turned into a zombie. He hides her in a small village, trying to keep her condition a secret.
Jo Jung Suk stars as the father, Lee Jung Hwan, with Choi Yu Ri as his daughter, Lee Su Ah. The cast also includes Lee Jung Eun, Cho Yeo Jeong, and Yoon Kyung Ho. This film is expected to deliver both laughs and heartfelt moments as it explores themes of family and resilience.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming slate of Korean films adapted from webtoons is truly exciting. From the fantasy adventures of Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint to the thrilling action of New Humanity War: Resurrection Man, the suspenseful drama of Revelations, and the heartwarming comedy of My Daughter is a Zombie, there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye out for these films as they bring beloved webtoon stories to the big screen.
Stay tuned for more updates on release dates and additional casting news. Which of these films are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments!
