Top 11 Korean Revenge Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

11 Novels

Korean revenge novels typically feature protagonists who were wronged and now have the means—often through regression, reincarnation, or system powers—to settle accounts. The genre emphasizes planning and execution over raw combat, with protagonists who outthink rather than simply overpower their enemies.

Settings range from academy environments to corporate worlds to fantasy kingdoms. The common thread is methodical payback against antagonists who once had power over the protagonist. Some stories go for cathartic face-slapping, others for more calculated dismantling.

1
TOP PICK
Dungeon Defense
4.5
(3.0K ratings)
Genre: action, drama, ecchi
Do you know how this world ends? Become the hero and defeat the 72 Demon Lords.
First Impressions
Dungeon Defense is a web novel that certainly sparked a lot of strong opinions, and after diving in, I can see why. It's a story about a protagonist who transmigrates into a game he's beaten, becoming the weakest demon lord, Dantalian. He has to use his wits and cunning to survive and rise in a world filled with scheming nobles and powerful enemies. Initially, I was hooked by the premise. The idea of an intelligent, manipulative main character in a fantasy setting is always appealing. The first volume seemed to set up a fascinating world of political intrigue and strategic battles, and I found...
Read More
2
RUNNER UP
Turning
4.8
(869 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, adventure
Yuder was a commoner Omega who rose to the top with his ability. When he woke up again after being falsely accused and executed, he was back 11 years ago before everything began.
First Impressions
"Turning" is a web novel that has completely captivated me. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and a slow-burn romance that's worth the wait, it's easy to see why it boasts such a high rating. This isn't a quick read, but it's a deeply rewarding one. Initially, the sheer length of "Turning" was daunting. Usually, I prefer shorter stories, but something about the premise intrigued me. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the world and the complex dynamic between Yuder and Kishiar. It's a story that requires patience, but it quickly becomes clear that it's going to be a...
Read More
Completed
3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
The Man’s Perfect Wife
4.3
(541 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, drama
The foundation of South Korea’s high society is money, power, and marriage. His marriage was considered a mere ‘contract’ between the fathers.
First Impressions
"The Man's Perfect Wife" is a whirlwind of passion, drama, and secrets. I dove in expecting a typical arranged marriage trope, but I was quickly proven wrong. This story grabs you from the prologue and doesn't let go until the epilogue. Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of some steamy scenes, and I wasn’t disappointed. The summary hints at a marriage of convenience between Min Yuan and Seo JoonHun, seemingly destined to fall apart. However, the author quickly subverts expectations, revealing a much darker and more complex plot involving family secrets and revenge. The initial chapters a...
Read More
Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
Predatory Marriage
4.4
(594 ratings)
Genre: adult, drama, fantasy
Princess Leah wrote a su*cide note before her wedding. She was certain that she would die after the wedding night—a miserable end for a princess who had devoted her life to the country and the royal family.
First Impressions
"Predatory Marriage" certainly grabbed my attention with its provocative title and blend of adult romance and fantasy elements. Diving in, I was curious to see if it lived up to the hype – or the criticisms. Initially, I was a bit thrown off. The story jumps right into things, and it took me a moment to get my bearings. Some have pointed out the abruptness of the timeline shift, and I can see how that could be jarring. However, I quickly found myself intrigued by Leah, the female lead, and her desire for revenge....
Read More
Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
Doppio Senso
4.4
(347 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, drama
“What are you thinking about? ” “I’m thinking about a guy.
First Impressions
"Doppio Senso" is a wild ride, and if you're looking for something that's both steamy and action-packed, this might just be your next obsession. I went in expecting one thing and came out pleasantly surprised by the blend of genres. This novel isn't afraid to push boundaries, and it definitely left an impression. Right off the bat, the premise grabbed my attention. A female lead raised in a criminal organization, tasked with seducing and eliminating her enemy? Sign me up! The initial chapters set a dark and intriguing tone, hinting at the complex relationship that would develop between Eunha a...
Read More

Novel Translator 2026

Reading Korean Novels?

Translate any Korean novel to your preferred language with Novel Translator's AI-powered technology.

40+ Languages

Translate to and from major world languages

Custom Made Translation Engine

State-of-the-art translation quality

EPUB and TXT Support

Keep formatting, chapters, and covers

Fast Processing

Translate entire novels in hours

View Pricing

Trusted by 16,000+ readers worldwide in 2026

6
#6 PICK
How to Live as the Enemy Prince
4.4
(404 ratings)
Genre: adventure, comedy, drama
I could hear the hum of life in my ears. It was hard to breathe….
First Impressions
"How to Live as the Enemy Prince" immediately grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise: a soldier reborn as the prince of the very kingdom he fought against. It's a setup ripe with potential for political intrigue, personal conflict, and a whole lot of clever maneuvering, and from what I've read, it largely delivers. The initial chapters are captivating, throwing you right into Calian's (formerly Bern's) struggle for survival. He's weak, vulnerable, and a target, which creates immediate tension. I found myself quickly invested in his plight and eager to see how he'd use his past knowle...
Read More
Completed
7
#7 PICK
The Baby Raising A Devil
4.4
(409 ratings)
Genre: adventure, comedy, fantasy
Three regressions, 4th life. Although she was prophesied and raised as the child of fate, she was sacrificed when the real child of fate appears.
First Impressions
"The Baby Raising A Devil" had me hooked from the get-go with its intriguing premise. A multi-reincarnated protagonist, a loving family, and a dash of villainy? Count me in! I've dived into the available chapters, and here are my thoughts. Initially, the translation quality was a hurdle. I saw some readers mention this, and I agree that some of the earlier chapters felt a bit rough around the edges. Thankfully, the translation seems to have improved significantly, making the story much more enjoyable. The promotional manhwa definitely piqued my interest, and I'm glad I stuck around to see the ...
Read More

Conclusion

This list gathers Korean revenge novels ranked by reader ratings. The approaches differ—some protagonists remain sympathetic, others become morally ambiguous as their revenge progresses. Quality in pacing and characterization varies across entries. If revenge as a primary motivation appeals to you, these are the better-rated options in the category.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our rankings consider multiple factors: reader ratings (40%), popularity and reading lists (25%), review quality (20%), and editorial assessment (15%). We update regularly to reflect new releases and changing reader preferences.

We update our rankings monthly to ensure they reflect the latest reader ratings and new novel releases.

How We Create Our 2026 Rankings

Our 2026 novel rankings are created through a comprehensive, data-driven process that combines quantitative metrics with qualitative editorial review. Here's how we ensure our rankings reflect the best novels available today.

Data Collection

We aggregate reading data, ratings, and engagement metrics from thousands of readers across multiple platforms, updated regularly throughout 2026.

Community Input

Reader ratings and reviews form the foundation of our rankings. We weight votes based on verified reading history to ensure authenticity.

Quality Scoring

Each novel receives a composite score based on average rating, vote count, reading list additions, and reader retention metrics.

Editorial Review

Our editorial team reviews top candidates for writing quality, translation accuracy, and overall reader experience.

Regular Updates

Rankings are refreshed quarterly to reflect new releases, updated ratings, and shifting reader preferences in 2026.

Transparency

We publish our methodology openly so readers understand exactly how novels earn their positions in our rankings.

Our 2026 Ranking Criteria

40%Reader Rating Score (weighted by vote count and recency)
25%Popularity Metrics (reading list additions, active readers)
20%Engagement Score (comments, reviews, recommendations)
15%Editorial Assessment (writing quality, translation, completeness)

Last updated: January 27, 2026 | Rankings reflect data collected through 2026

Ranked Novels

Dungeon Defense

First Impressions

Turning

First Impressions

The Man’s Perfect Wife

First Impressions

Predatory Marriage

First Impressions

Doppio Senso

First Impressions