Top 19 Most Popular Korean Romance Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Editor's Picks

19 Novels

Korean romance has carved out a distinctive niche, particularly with the villainess and transmigration subgenres. Protagonists often find themselves in the body of a character from a novel or game, knowing the plot and trying to change their fate. This setup creates interesting dynamics where romance develops alongside survival strategy.

The tone tends to be more dramatic than Japanese romance but less melodramatic than some Chinese entries. Relationships progress through misunderstandings and political maneuvering rather than pure fluff. The popular titles here balance romantic tension with enough plot momentum to justify their length, which can run to several hundred chapters.

1
TOP PICK
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
2
RUNNER UP
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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Completed
3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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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Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
Ending Maker
4.5
(991 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Two heroes of the game Legend of Heroes 2 who were rotten waters*. Kang Jin-ho in the first place and Hong Yoo Hee in the second place.
First Impressions
"Ending Maker" promised a fun ride through a familiar yet twisted reincarnation story, and for the most part, it delivered. It's a story where two gamers find themselves inside the world of their favorite game, armed with meta-knowledge and a chance to avert a looming apocalypse. Right off the bat, I was drawn in by the dynamic between Jude and Cordelia. The initial chapters are filled with quirky banter and humorous situations as they navigate their new reality. Their relationship starts off as a rivalry friendship, and watching them plan, support each other, and grow together is genuinely en...
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5
EDITORS CHOICE
Top Management
4.6
(622 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, romance
Jung Sunwoo was an ordinary man with big dreams. He had just landed his first job at W&U, a celebrity management company, and envisioned himself managing a world-famous actor or actress.
First Impressions
"Top Management" initially caught my eye with its premise: a cinephile turned manager gaining precognitive abilities in the cutthroat Korean entertainment industry. I dove in, and while it wasn't exactly what I expected, I found it to be a compelling and unique read. The setup is definitely intriguing. Our protagonist isn't some overpowered genius, but a regular guy thrown into extraordinary circumstances. His visions of the future are unpredictable, which creates a constant sense of tension and uncertainty. I appreciated that the story didn't rely on clichés like rebirth or reincarnation, opt...
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Completed
6
#6 PICK
The Main Heroines are Trying to Kill Me
4.2
(813 ratings)
Genre: adventure, fantasy, harem
To save the hopeless Dark Fantasy World, I held back my tears and destroyed the world, then killed the Demon King and returned. Now, I’m trying to save the world using the “System” I gained as a “Regressor’s Privilege”… But the Main Heroines have also awakened their own memories of the previous ...
First Impressions
"The Main Heroines are Trying to Kill Me" is a wild ride, to say the least. Jumping into this novel, I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I emerged on the other side both emotionally drained and strangely satisfied. It's a story that plays with your heartstrings, and while it doesn't always hit the mark perfectly, the overall experience is undeniably memorable. Initially, the premise grabbed me. The idea of a protagonist forced to act as a villain to achieve a greater good, while simultaneously dealing with heroines who genuinely want him dead, is intriguing. The early chapters did a solid ...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
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
8
#8 PICK
Under the Oak Tree
4.3
(654 ratings)
Genre: adult, adventure, fantasy
The daughter of a duke, the stuttering Maximilian was married to a knight of lowly status at her father’s coercion. After their wedding night, her husband departed on an expedition without another word.
First Impressions
"Under the Oak Tree" is a web novel that's definitely sparked some strong opinions, and after diving in, I can see why. It's a story that demands patience, and whether that patience pays off seems to be the central debate. This is a slow burn, and your enjoyment hinges on how much you connect with the characters and their journeys. Initially, I was a bit put off by the dynamic between the leads, Maximillian and Riftan. She's timid and stutters, a result of years of abuse, and he comes across as rather rough and misunderstanding. Some have described his initial actions as bordering on abusive, ...
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Completed
9
#9 PICK
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...
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Completed
10
#10 PICK
The Hunter’s Gonna Lay Low
4.5
(423 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
Hunter Cha Eui-jae, who was dispatched to seal a rift that appeared over the West Sea, was flung out as soon as he closed the rift. When he came to his senses, he was lying in a garbage dump.
First Impressions
"The Hunter's Gonna Lay Low" has been quite the ride, and I can definitely see why it's garnered so much attention, especially with the manhwa adaptation. It's a blend of action, adventure, and romance with a healthy dose of supernatural elements, all wrapped up in a post-apocalyptic package. However, like any good story, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise – a powerful hunter trying to escape his past and live a normal life. This setup creates a great blend of comedy and underlying tension. The "secret identity" trope is used well, and the introductio...
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Completed
11
#11 PICK
Fairy Trap
4.5
(375 ratings)
Genre: adult, drama, fantasy
Joo Yi-Gyeol, who sleeps 22 hours a day has Rostov Syndrome. Learning to escape from the body while asleep, he follows a golden butterfly he encountered one day and crossed to another dimension.
First Impressions
"Fairy Trap" has been quite the ride, and I can definitely see why it has garnered such a devoted following. This isn't your typical fluffy romance, and I appreciate that it delves into darker themes with complex characters. It's a story that sticks with you, prompting reflection long after you've finished reading. Initially, I was a bit hesitant. The premise hinted at a potentially weak protagonist and an overly aggressive male lead, a trope I usually avoid. However, I'm glad I pushed past my initial reservations. The story quickly subverted my expectations, revealing layers of depth and nuan...
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Conclusion

Villainess novels drove a lot of Korean romance's international popularity, so they're well-represented here. If that subgenre doesn't appeal to you, there are still CEO dramas, historical romances, and other flavors in the mix. Popularity reflects reader engagement across different tastes.

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

Turning

First Impressions

Lucia

First Impressions

Kidnapped Dragons

First Impressions

Ending Maker

First Impressions

Top Management

First Impressions

The Main Heroines are Trying to Kill Me

First Impressions

Living As the Villainess Queen

First Impressions

Under the Oak Tree

First Impressions

The Man’s Perfect Wife

First Impressions