Top 17 Korean Romance Novels with Cultivation in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

17 Novels

Korean romance with cultivation creates an interesting blend. You get the progression and power systems typical of cultivation stories, but romance takes center stage rather than being a side element. These novels often feature characters growing stronger together, with cultivation milestones intertwined with relationship development.

The Korean approach differs from Chinese cultivation romance in tone and pacing. System elements appear frequently, tracking both power and sometimes relationship status. The romance tends more central to the plot, with cultivation providing structure and stakes rather than dominating the narrative. Some lean toward fantasy settings, others incorporate modern elements with martial arts systems.

Completed
1
TOP PICK
A Regressor’s Tale of Cultivation
4.4
(718 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
On the way to a company workshop, we fell into a world of immortal cultivators while still in the car. Those with spiritual roots and unique abilities were all called to join cultivation sects, living prosperously.
First Impressions
"A Regressor’s Tale of Cultivation" is quite the ride, a Korean take on the xianxia genre with a unique flavor. The premise is intriguing: a group of ordinary folks get isekai'd into a cultivation world, and our MC, unlike his colleagues, discovers his talent is regression upon his death. It's a blend of action, adventure, drama, and a whole lot more, making for a complex story. Initially, I found myself drawn to the story. The early focus on martial arts, before the cultivation aspects really kicked in, was a breath of fresh air. I appreciated the detailed explanations and the unique system t...
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Completed
2
RUNNER UP
The Sickly Young Master of the Namgung Family is Afraid of His Blackened Former Disciple
4.1
(51 ratings)
Genre: adult, fantasy, martial arts
In the past, Eun-hyeon was transported into a martial arts novel called “Descent of the Heavenly Demon” where he raised the protagonist, Cheong-un, as his disciple. Unlike the original story, Eun-hyeon formed a good relationship with his disciple but eventually died following the original plot, ...
First Impressions
Alright, let's dive into "The Sickly Young Master of the Namgung Family is Afraid of His Blackened Former Disciple" – what a mouthful! This title definitely grabbed my attention, and after reading a bit, I can see why it's got a solid 4.1-star rating. It's a blend of classic martial arts tropes with a modern, spicy twist. The initial chapters pulled me right in. The world-building is pretty strong, giving off those familiar ancient vibes with a Korean flair. I immediately got a sense of the power dynamics and the MC's precarious position. It's clear from the start that we're in for a ride fill...
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3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
How the Demon Cult Leader’s Son Survives in the Righteous Sect
4.1
(33 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, comedy
Seong Muyeon, the seventh son of the Demon Cult Leader and a sufferer of severed meridians syndrome, realizes that he has been reincarnated as a character in the martial arts novel “Supreme Sword Chronicle. ” According to the original plot, the Demon Cult is utterly destroyed by the protagonist B...
First Impressions
"How the Demon Cult Leader’s Son Survives in the Righteous Sect" immediately grabbed my attention with its intriguing title and premise. A demon cult leader's son, trying to survive in a righteous sect? Sign me up! I went in expecting a wild ride of deception, cultivation, and maybe a little romance, and so far, I haven't been disappointed. The story plunges you right into the action, and the protagonist's fish-out-of-water experience is both hilarious and surprisingly relatable. What I appreciate most about this story is its commitment to character depth. The male lead, with his aggressive te...
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4
EDITORS CHOICE
That’s Not How You Use Martial Arts
3.7
(46 ratings)
Genre: action, comedy, drama
I was reincarnated into the coveted world of martial arts. But this world, something’s strange.
First Impressions
"That’s Not How You Use Martial Arts" is a novel that grabbed my attention with its intriguing title and the promise of a unique take on the wuxia genre. After diving in and considering the experiences of other readers, I've formed a pretty solid opinion on this one. It's a bit of a rollercoaster, but there's definitely something here that could appeal to a specific kind of reader. The initial chapters definitely hooked me. The idea that the martial arts world is full of raw power but lacking in finesse, that no one has actually figured out sword qi or proper techniques, is a fun premise. It s...
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5
EDITORS CHOICE
The Heavenly Demon Cult’s Strongest Maid
3.6
(17 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
I’ve transmigrated into a martial arts novel. Not as a supporting character, nor even an extra, but as a 13-year-old girl with no mention whatsoever.
First Impressions
Okay, let's dive into "The Heavenly Demon Cult’s Strongest Maid." I went in with moderate expectations, given the mixed buzz I'd seen, and I came out feeling… well, conflicted. This novel definitely has its strengths, but also some glaring weaknesses that might make or break it for you. Initially, the premise hooked me. A female protagonist navigating the treacherous world of a martial arts cult as a maid? Sign me up! The idea of a strong, capable woman carving her own path in such a setting is inherently appealing. I was ready for witty banter, cunning schemes, and maybe even a dash of romanc...
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Completed
6
#6 PICK
I Don’t Know Martial Arts
3.7
(75 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, harem
Me and my friend transmigrated as characters inside a Wuxia novel. The problem is, “….
First Impressions
"I Don't Know Martial Arts" had me hooked from the start with its unique premise. Two modern-day friends transmigrating into a martial arts novel? Sign me up! The initial chapters promised a hilarious and refreshing take on the genre, blending wuxia with meta-commentary and rom-com tropes. While the overall rating is decent, I wanted to delve deeper into what makes this novel tick. The setup is undeniably strong. Our protagonist, Myoha, is a rom-com enthusiast, and his best friend is a BL fanatic. Their interactions are gold, especially as they try to navigate the murim world with their genre-...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
Scoundrel in the Holy Academy is the Demon Lord’s Son
3.7
(107 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, adventure
I was reincarnated as the scoundrel grandson of a margrave. But my family tree is a little strange.
First Impressions
"Scoundrel in the Holy Academy is the Demon Lord’s Son" is definitely a novel that knows what it wants to be. It's a wild ride, and whether or not you enjoy it will likely depend on your tolerance for, well, a lot of R18 content. The initial chapters can feel a bit rushed. The MC's integration into this new world, especially considering he's inhabiting the body of a notorious scoundrel, happens rather quickly. It throws you into the deep end, and it takes a bit to get your bearings on the family tree and the overall setting....
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8
#8 PICK
I Kidnapped the Youngest Daughter of the Sichuan Tang Clan
4.0
(93 ratings)
Genre: action, comedy, harem
Cheon Hwi-da, once feared as the Sword Demon, lived a life drenched in blood, only to fall before the rise of the invincible Heavenly Demon. In his final moments, he watched helplessly as Tang Sowol, the last heir of the Tang Clan and the woman he couldn’t protect, perished before his eyes.
First Impressions
"I Kidnapped the Youngest Daughter of the Sichuan Tang Clan" immediately grabbed my attention with its quirky title and the promise of a lighthearted wuxia adventure. After diving in, I found a story that, while not groundbreaking, delivers a consistently enjoyable experience. It's like a comforting bowl of noodles – familiar, satisfying, and perfect for a relaxing read. The initial chapters are definitely the strongest, living up to the summary's promise of a protagonist who takes… unconventional actions. The humor is definitely present early on. I was hooked by the premise and eager to see w...
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Completed
9
#9 PICK
Top Star Lee Gun-Woo
4.2
(40 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
Although he is still young, his life was full of regrets. Lee Gun-woo regains his memories from his previous life due to a car accident.
First Impressions
"Top Star Lee Gun-Woo" promised a blend of modern entertainment and cultivation, a combination that immediately piqued my interest. After diving in, I found myself with mixed feelings, appreciating certain aspects while also acknowledging some shortcomings. The initial premise is quite engaging: a down-on-his-luck aspiring musician suddenly remembers his past life as a cultivator. This sets him on a path to reclaim his dreams, but with a unique twist. The story quickly establishes Lee Gun-Woo as incredibly handsome and talented, almost to a fault. While this initially feels like a wish-fulfill...
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Completed
10
#10 PICK
The Terminally-Ill Side-Character Inside of a Martial Arts Novel
3.8
(142 ratings)
Genre: drama, fantasy, martial arts
I became the younger sister of the male protagonist in a martial arts novel. A terminally-ill side character, who was sold to the Demon Cult for the family’s sake.
First Impressions
Alright, let's dive into "The Terminally-Ill Side-Character Inside of a Martial Arts Novel." This title alone grabbed my attention, and after reading a fair bit of it, I'm ready to share my thoughts. The premise is definitely intriguing. We've got a sickly protagonist, thrown into a martial arts world. It's a blend of genres that, on paper, sounds like it could either be a train wreck or a surprisingly compelling story. So far, I'm leaning towards the latter. The initial chapters set the scene well, establishing the FL's fragile health and her world before the transmigration....
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Conclusion

Korean cultivation romance occupies a specific niche between pure romance and progression fantasy. These 17 entries balance both elements well. If you want relationship development alongside power growth, this combination delivers on both fronts.

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

A Regressor’s Tale of Cultivation

First Impressions

The Sickly Young Master of the Namgung Family is Afraid of His Blackened Former Disciple

First Impressions

How the Demon Cult Leader’s Son Survives in the Righteous Sect

First Impressions

That’s Not How You Use Martial Arts

First Impressions

The Heavenly Demon Cult’s Strongest Maid

First Impressions

I Don’t Know Martial Arts

First Impressions

Scoundrel in the Holy Academy is the Demon Lord’s Son

First Impressions

I Kidnapped the Youngest Daughter of the Sichuan Tang Clan

First Impressions