Top 19 Underrated Korean Fantasy Novels in 2026

Ranked Novels

1. Completed

   1

   TOP PICK

   T*ash of the Count’s Family

   4.5

   (3.3K ratings)

   Genre: action, adventure, fantasy

   When I opened my eyes, I was inside a novel. I became a part of that novel as the tr*sh of the Count’s family, the family that oversaw the territory where the first village that Choi Han visits is located.

   First Impressions

   I finally dove into Tash of the Count’s Family, and I have to say, it's quite the ride. With its high overall rating and a massive list of tags, I was definitely curious to see what all the hype was about. Having read a fair chunk of it, I can see the appeal, but also some of the issues that might turn readers off. Initially, the premise felt familiar: a Korean transmigrator ends up in the body of a trashy noble within a novel he'd read. The MC's goal? To live a peaceful, wealthy life, avoiding all conflict. I was a little worried it would be another generic "lazy MC gets dragged into trouble"...

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2. 

   2

   RUNNER UP

   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...

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3. 

   3

   HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

   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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4. Completed

   4

   EDITORS CHOICE

   Got Dropped into a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work

   4.8

   (706 ratings)

   Genre: action, adventure, comedy

   NOW HIRING — URGENT — Ghost Story Specialist Corporation Daydream Inc. (Ltd.

   First Impressions

   Okay, let's dive into "Got Dropped into a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work." This web novel has been quite the ride, blending horror, comedy, and a healthy dose of office satire. I went in expecting a spooky adventure, and I definitely got that, but it was the unique blend of genres and the intriguing protagonist that really hooked me. Initially, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. The premise seemed interesting enough – a guy gets thrown into ghost stories but still has to deal with the daily grind. It felt a bit like a supernatural SCP Foundation meets Dilbert, which is a weird combo, but it...

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5. Completed

   5

   EDITORS CHOICE

   If You Don’t Become the Main Character, You’ll Die

   4.8

   (282 ratings)

   Genre: action, adventure, comedy

   I suddenly found myself dropped into a fantasy kingdom story. But what’s the status of my scenario importance?

   First Impressions

   "If You Don’t Become the Main Character, You’ll Die" is a wild ride that I'm so glad I decided to jump on. With a near-perfect rating and a sprawling storyline, I was intrigued, and after diving in, I can definitely see why it's so beloved. It's a unique blend of genres, and the execution is what really makes it shine. Initially, the title and summary made me think this would be another run-of-the-mill transmigration story. You know, the kind where the protagonist just clings to the main character for survival. But boy, was I wrong! From the get-go, the author throws you into a world brimming ...

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6. Completed

   6

   #6 PICK

   I Have No Dreams, I Just Want To Play

   4.7

   (10 ratings)

   Genre: adventure, fantasy, mature

   “I have no dreams, I just want to play. ” I live by this motto with my parents’ financial support, until one day.

   First Impressions

   "I Have No Dreams, I Just Want To Play" promised a transported-to-another-world adventure with a harem-esque twist, and after diving in, I found it delivered on that promise, albeit with a few bumps along the way. It's a novel that's easy to get lost in, but perhaps not without a few frustrated sighs. The initial arcs grabbed my attention immediately. The premise of a male protagonist navigating a new, fantastical world is always appealing, and the hints of romance with multiple love interests definitely piqued my curiosity. The cover art certainly reflects the 'harem-y' nature of the story, s...

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7. Completed

   7

   #7 PICK

   Salute for Laurel

   4.7

   (41 ratings)

   Genre: drama, fantasy, romance

   Lucien, a beautiful yet humble maidservant. To her, life was simply something to endure, And death, something familiar and numb like everyday life.

   First Impressions

   "Salute for Laurel" immediately grabbed my attention, and I'm eager to share my initial thoughts as I delve deeper into this intriguing story. With its blend of drama, fantasy, romance, and a touch of tragedy, it promises a compelling journey. From the very beginning, I was captivated. There's a certain charm in the European ambience, and the premise of a "poor to rich" transformation with a "weak to strong" protagonist definitely piqued my interest. I am absolutely on board with stories that take their time to develop the romance, allowing the tension to simmer and build....

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8. Completed

   8

   #8 PICK

   A Regressor’s Bucket List

   4.7

   (133 ratings)

   Genre: action, adventure, fantasy

   『Hunt Demon King 』 The regressor decided to hunt the Demon King.

   First Impressions

   "A Regressor's Bucket List" had me hooked from the premise alone. The idea of a protagonist armed with past knowledge trying to make the most of a second chance is always appealing, and the blend of action, adventure, and fantasy elements promised a thrilling ride. The game-like aspects sprinkled throughout added another layer of intrigue. The world-building is captivating, and the integration of magical space and supernatural elements feels organic. I particularly enjoyed the author's ability to create a sense of mystery, constantly leaving me eager to uncover the secrets lurking beneath the ...

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9. 

   9

   #9 PICK

   The Final Broadcast of a Genius Dark Sorcerer

   4.8

   (5 ratings)

   Genre: comedy, fantasy, supernatural

   In a continent decimated by unrelenting cataclysms, I’m the last human standing. Alone and desperate, I begin broadcasting in a futile attempt to leave behind proof of my existence.

   First Impressions

   Okay, so I stumbled upon "The Final Broadcast of a Genius Dark Sorcerer" and wasn't sure what to expect. The title is definitely a mouthful, but it piqued my interest. The premise seemed unique enough to give it a shot, and I'm glad I did. It's a post-apocalyptic fantasy world where our MC, a dark sorcerer, is apparently broadcasting his final days. The combination of magic, demons, and livestreaming definitely grabbed my attention. The world-building is surprisingly good, especially considering it's revealed bit by bit through the MC's broadcasts. I found myself getting invested in piecing to...

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10. 

    10

    #10 PICK

    The Academy’s Doomed Young Lord Dies Ten Thousand Times

    5.0

    (2 ratings)

    Genre: action, adventure, drama

    The illegitimate child despised by the ducal family, a shut-in who never left his room, a gloomy good-for-nothing student. I had possessed a background character who was fated to die before the scenario even began.

    First Impressions

    "The Academy’s Doomed Young Lord Dies Ten Thousand Times" certainly grabs your attention with its title! The premise of a time-looping protagonist stuck in a deadly academy is instantly intriguing. I went in expecting a dark, action-packed fantasy, and the initial chapters definitely delivered on that promise. The mystery surrounding the "doomed" aspect kept me hooked, eager to uncover the secrets behind the protagonist's repeated deaths. The core concept of the time loop is executed pretty well. I appreciate how the author uses each loop to slowly unravel the mysteries of the academy and the ...

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11. 

    11

    #11 PICK

    The Fanatics Were Defeated by the Baby Pope, So Don’t Worry!

    5.0

    (6 ratings)

    Genre: comedy, drama, fantasy

    I woke up inside a dystopian game… A world with no dreams, no hope, and definitely no mercy. My assigned mission?

    First Impressions

    I dove into "The Fanatics Were Defeated by the Baby Pope, So Don’t Worry!" with high hopes, drawn in by the intriguing title and the promise of comedy, drama, and fantasy all rolled into one. The premise alone – age regression meets a world on the brink of apocalypse – had me eager to see how it would all play out. My initial reaction was definitely positive. The concept of a baby pope battling fanatics is inherently humorous, and I found myself chuckling at the absurdity of it all. The early chapters did a good job of setting the stage and introducing the main characters, particularly the cut...

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12. Completed

    12

    #12 PICK

    395924love

    5.0

    (2 ratings)

    Genre: drama, fantasy, romance

    The confession burst out like a traffic accident in broad daylight. And a month later, the person I liked got a girlfriend.

    First Impressions

    Alright, let's dive into "395924love." This short novel promises a whirlwind of emotions, and from what I've gathered, it delivers...perhaps a little too effectively for some. It's a story steeped in drama, fantasy, romance, and, crucially, tragedy, all wrapped up in a yaoi package. Be warned: this isn't your typical fluffy romance. The cover art apparently drew me in, and the premise of childhood friends navigating first love sounded sweet enough. However, the "tragedy" tag loomed large, a warning I should have heeded more closely. The story is set in the modern day, which grounds the fantast...

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13. Completed

    13

    #13 PICK

    The Maid Makes Cocktails Well

    4.9

    (28 ratings)

    Genre: comedy, drama, fantasy

    The spirit of a bloodthirsty gale possesses a maid in the imperial palace. Trusting solely in her dazzling beauty, she becomes entangled in the romance between the emperor and the female lead, a role that often ends in losing one’s life.

    First Impressions

    "The Maid Makes Cocktails Well" is a delightful read that I found myself thoroughly enjoying. It's the kind of story you pick up when you need something light, heartwarming, and generally pleasant to sink into. While it might not be the most groundbreaking novel out there, its charm and execution make it a worthwhile experience. From the get-go, the novel establishes a cozy European ambience that I instantly appreciated. The premise of a maid who's also a skilled mixologist is unique and intriguing. The story drew me in with the promise of lighthearted romance, a capable female lead, and a tou...

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14. 

    14

    #14 PICK

    Goblin Knight

    4.9

    (10 ratings)

    Genre: action, fantasy

    The Goblin Dreamed of Nobility

    First Impressions

    "Goblin Knight" presents a fascinating premise: a knight, but also, a goblin. It's a blend of classic fantasy tropes with a monstrous twist, and so far, it's been a ride. Here are my thoughts. From the get-go, I was intrigued by the non-humanoid protagonist. We're used to seeing noble knights in shining armor, but a goblin knight? That's a subversion I can get behind. The initial chapters pulled me in with the promise of action and a unique perspective on the well-trodden fantasy landscape....

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15. Completed

    15

    #15 PICK

    Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

    4.6

    (2.4K ratings)

    Genre: action, adventure, comedy

    Kim Dok-Ja does not consider himself the protagonist of his own life. Befitting the name his parents gave him, he is a solitary person whose sole hobby is reading web novels.

    First Impressions

    "Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint" is a wild ride, and I can definitely see why it's garnered so much attention. It’s the type of story that grabs you and refuses to let go, throwing you headfirst into a world that's both familiar and utterly bizarre. Overall, I found it a compelling read, although not without its quirks. The premise is undeniably intriguing: a lone reader, Kim Dokja, finds himself living in the world of the web novel he’s obsessed over for a decade. The world is transported to his, and he now has the immense knowledge of how it will end, or so he thinks. It's a fantastic setup t...

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16. Completed

    16

    #16 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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17. Completed

    17

    #17 PICK

    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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18. Completed

    18

    #18 PICK

    Running Away From The Hero!

    4.6

    (601 ratings)

    Genre: action, comedy, fantasy

    After living for a long time in a fantasy world, I ended up becoming a villain! Whilst I beat up both bad guys and good guys as a villain, the legendary hero appeared in front of me.

    First Impressions

    "Running Away From The Hero!" is a breath of fresh air in the reincarnation genre. It's a wild ride that had me laughing from the get-go. The premise alone is enough to pique anyone's interest: a reincarnated nobody ends up as an instructor for an evil organization, training future heroes (or villains, depending on your perspective). I was immediately hooked by the fact that the story jumps straight into the action. No tedious childhood phase here! We're thrown right into Naruan's life as a 40-year-old instructor, and I appreciated the lack of drawn-out exposition. The initial point of view fr...

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19. Completed

    19

    #19 PICK

    Sword Pilgrim

    4.5

    (435 ratings)

    Genre: action, adventure, drama

    Callius von Jervain. A character who dies no matter what he does.

    First Impressions

    "Sword Pilgrim" has been quite the ride, and after diving deep into it, I've got some thoughts to share. It's a novel that clearly evokes strong reactions, both positive and negative, and I can definitely see why. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise – a writer transmigrated into his own game world. That's a hook that always gets me. The early chapters were intriguing, setting up a dark, medieval-esque world with a unique religious system involving turning the dead into weapons. I was ready for a grimdark adventure, and for a while, it delivered....

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