Top 11 Korean Second Chance Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

11 Novels

There's an undeniable thrill in watching a protagonist armed with foresight and regret navigate a new beginning. Korean second chance novels leverage this trope effectively, delivering stories where characters, often after a tragic end or a lifetime of mistakes, are thrust back in time. This isn't just about reliving moments; it's about strategically outmaneuvering past adversaries, reclaiming lost glory, or simply finding a happier path, all while grappling with the burden of future knowledge. What elevates these narratives is the blend of careful planning and emotional depth. Whether it's a regression to an academy setting, a reincarnation into a different body, or simply a reset of the timeline, the strategic protagonists use their 'system window' of past experiences to manipulate power dynamics and change their destiny. From corporate intrigue to fantasy battles, the journey to a better future is always packed with tension and satisfying pay-offs.

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1
TOP PICK
Kidnapped Dragons
4.6
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: action, drama, fantasy
– The planet [Earth] has entered the abnormal state [Apocalypse]. – You have failed in saving the Earth.
First Impressions
"Kidnapped Dragons" is a web novel that really took me by surprise. With its blend of action, drama, fantasy, and even slice-of-life elements, it's a story that's hard to pin down, but ultimately rewarding. The premise itself – a regressor MC who has failed to save the world six times, now tasked with caring for young dragons – felt intriguing enough to draw me in. Initially, I was a little wary. The sheer number of tags (over 60!) made me wonder if it would be a case of too many ideas vying for attention. And, admittedly, the early chapters might not grab everyone immediately. Some readers fo...
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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...
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Completed
3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Lucia
4.4
(1.5K ratings)
Genre: adult, drama, fantasy
Lucia grew up not knowing she was a princess. But when her mother died, she entered the palace and had the chance to see her entire future in a dream.
First Impressions
"Lucia" is a web novel that really took me on a rollercoaster. With its mix of adult themes, fantasy elements, and a central romance, it definitely has a lot going on. After diving in and absorbing various reader opinions, I've got a pretty good handle on what makes this story tick, both for good and for ill. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise of a protagonist trying to navigate a pre-determined fate. The tags promised a complex story with character growth and a mature tone. However, some readers found the world-building lacking and the initial plot points to be somewhat weak, especiall...
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4
EDITORS CHOICE
Living As the Villainess Queen
4.4
(651 ratings)
Genre: adult, drama, fantasy
‘I want to travel to a place unknown to the many…’ It was a passing wish to the weary and tired Eugene and she’d not think it’d ever come to pass… but it did. She opened her eyes and found she was sent to a novel-like world she wrote in passing and became Jin Anika, the scorned queen notorious f...
First Impressions
"Living As the Villainess Queen" had me intrigued from the start, promising a blend of adult themes, fantasy, and a dash of that classic villainess isekai twist. After diving in, I've found it to be a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by some noticeable shortcomings. The initial hook is strong: a protagonist transmigrating into a novel she wrote, only to suffer from amnesia regarding the plot. This concept, while interesting, seems to be a major sticking point for some. I can see why; it does feel a bit odd that she's so clueless about her own creation. However, the world-buil...
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Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
God of Cooking
4.4
(685 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, fantasy
30-year-old Jo Minjoon has always wanted to become a chef. He started his culinary career late in life, however, and is currently chopping onions at a restaurant.
First Impressions
"God of Cooking" promised a delicious blend of cooking, romance, and a second chance, and honestly, it largely delivered. With a solid 4.4/5 rating, it's clear this novel has resonated with a lot of readers, including me. Initially, I was a little wary. The "game elements" tag made me think it might be another stat-obsessed story, but thankfully, that wasn't the case. The system is present, but it felt more like a tool than a crutch for the main character (MC). It's well-integrated, not awkward, and, as the MC grows, he relies on it less. The initial chapters felt like a tasty appetizer, setti...
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Completed
6
#6 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 ...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
The Regressor and the Blind Saint
4.5
(414 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, adventure
“In this life, I will live for you. ” Vera, who had lived as a villain all his life, came to regret it upon meeting Renee, who sacrificed everything at the end of hers.
First Impressions
"The Regressor and the Blind Saint" is a novel that caught my eye with its intriguing premise: a ruthless man finds redemption through the kindness of a blind saintess and gets a second chance to dedicate his life to her. After diving in, I found a story with a lot of heart, but also a few aspects that might not appeal to everyone. Initially, I was hooked. The idea of a "sigma male" (as some readers jokingly put it) becoming a devoted protector is definitely appealing. The early chapters do a great job setting up the dynamic between Vera, the regressor, and Renee, the saintess. The potential f...
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Conclusion

This list of Korean second chance novels showcases protagonists rewriting their destinies. I looked through many regressions and reincarnations to bring you stories that stick with you long after the final page. Bookmark your favorites and check out our other rankings for more web novel recommendations.

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

Kidnapped Dragons

First Impressions

Turning

First Impressions

Lucia

First Impressions

Living As the Villainess Queen

First Impressions

God of Cooking

First Impressions