South Korean manhwa rose to fame in the early 2000s with titles like Noblesse captivating readers worldwide. The unique art style, vibrant colors, and captivating narratives have amassed a massive following. While manhwa boasts many memorable protagonists, some deviate from the traditional hero archetype, portraying characters who are outright despicable within their stories.

Antagonists have always held allure, especially when they take center stage in a narrative. Within manhwa, numerous characters embody villainous traits, but is there one among them who stands out as the ultimate malefactor?

10 Kim (I Grow Stronger By Eating)

MyAnimeList Score: 6.85

• Creator(s): Hanjib
• First Published: June 2021
• Chapters: 100
• Status: Finished

Known as Pet Shop, Kim is a malevolent individual who gains powers by consuming creatures, including monsters. Originally a criminal, Kim's transfer to another world introduces him to mythical beasts that elevate his reign of terror.

Ruthless and indifferent, Kim stops at nothing to advance his agenda, using his formidable abilities to strike fear into anyone who crosses his path.

9 Lee Kiyoung (Regressor Instruction Manual)

MyAnimeList Score: 7.54

• Creator(s): Heuksujeo (Story), Midnight Studio (Art)
• First Published: October 2021
• Chapters: 88
• Status: Ongoing

Possessing a modest ability in a world where skills dictate destiny, Lee Kiyoung defies his mediocre prospects. Leveraging his skill to view others' statuses, Lee manipulates circumstances to ascend the ranks.

A Machiavellian disciple, Lee exploits individuals for personal gain, showcasing a callous demeanor by using acquaintances for his benefit. In a world of deceit, Lee thrives as a devious figure.

8 Jin Mu-Won (Legend Of The Northern Blade)

MyAnimeList Score: 8.40

• Creator(s): Woogack (Story), Hae, Min (Art)
• First Published: December 2019
• Chapters: 182
• Status: Ongoing

As the 5th generation Sect Leader of the Northern Heavenly Sect in Legend of the Northern Blade, Jin Mu-Won embarks on a vengeful journey following his father's unjust demise.

Unyielding in his pursuit of retribution, Jin spares no one in his quest for justice, instilling terror in those who impede his path.

7 Ji-U (+99 Wooden Stick)

MyAnimeList Score: 7.16

• Creator(s): Hongsil (Story), Jipery (Art)
• First Published: March 2022
• Chapters: 89
• Status: Ongoing

In the perilous realm of Chrono Life, Ji-U rises from obscurity armed with meager resources. Betrayed and armed with a wooden stick, Ji-U discovers its potential, escalating its power to unparalleled heights.

While not conventionally evil, Ji-U engages in morally ambiguous actions, including a mass slaughter, blurring the line between heroism and villainy.

6 Estelle (House Garnet's Archvillain)

MyAnimeList Score: 6.64

• Creator(s): Yuin (Story), Yeo, Doha (Art)
• First Published: November 2022
• Chapters: 48
• Status: Ongoing

Estelle emerges as a compelling antagonist in a shoujo manhwa, seeking retribution after a sacrificial ordeal. Unleashing despicable acts, Estelle embraces her malevolence unabashedly.

Amidst romantic entanglements and conflicting missions, Estelle's confrontation with a childhood friend heralds a clash of ideologies, setting the stage for a turbulent narrative.

5 Zheng (The Chaotic God Of Extraordinary Strength)

• Creator(s): Hanjung Wolya (Story), Kim Tae-Hyung (Art)
• First Published: March 2024
• Chapters: 14
• Status: Ongoing

Zheng epitomizes villainy, devoid of redeeming virtues. Assuming the identity of Mok Gyung-Woon, Zheng's propensity for violence distinguishes him as a merciless figure.

With a shared universe and ties to Nano Mashin, The Chaotic God of Extraordinary Strength chronicles Zheng's bloodthirsty ascent, underscoring his ruthless nature.

4 Lee Geon (The Return Of The Disaster-Class Hero)

MyAnimeList Score: 7.42

• Creator(s): Sanji Jiksong (Story), Lee, Beomgeun (Art)
• First Published: December 2021
• Chapters: 74
• Status: Ongoing

Lee Geon, the 13th Zodiac God, emerges from betrayal to mete out retribution after two decades. Chaos fuels Lee Geon's actions, utilizing allies as pawns in his pursuit.

While protective of companions, Lee Geon's allegiance lies solely with his interests, willing to sacrifice allies for his objectives. Driven by possessiveness, Lee Geon embodies a ruthless persona within his tumultuous world.

3 Ihwa (Hero Killer)

MyAnimeList Score: 7.52

• Creator(s): Kkulbeol (Story), Beolkkul (Art)
• First Published: May 2021
• Chapters: 154
• Status: Ongoing

In a realm that reveres heroes, Ihwa emerges as a hero slayer, driven by a thirst for justice following her sister's demise.

Despite her ruthless methods, Ihwa maintains transparency in her motives, detesting unnecessary casualties. With a calculated demeanor, Ihwa intrigues readers, blurring the lines between protagonist and antagonist.

2 Seonghoon (How To Live As A Villain)

MyAnimeList Score: 6.88

• Creator(s): Rundgreen (Story), Lee, Masik (Art)
• First Published: November 2021
• Chapters: 130
• Status: Ongoing

Catapulted into a divine competition, Seonghoon, lacking exceptional abilities, orchestrates a cunning ascent to supremacy.

Unfettered by morality, Seonghoon orchestrates ruthless acts, showcasing a character devoid of virtues yet rich in complexity, captivating audiences with his sinister allure.

1 Minsu Kim (The Hero Has Returned)

MyAnimeList Score: 6.88

• Creator(s): Heuk Ain (Story), Yungun (Art)
• First Published: June 2021
• Chapters: 117
• Status: Ongoing

Minsu Kim's classification as a protagonist may spark debate, given his brief heroic stint. After a harrowing homecoming post-Demon Lord's defeat, Minsu Kim embarks on a vengeful spree, inflicting devastation across South Korea.

Catalyst to the series' true hero, Jeongsu Park, Minsu Kim's malevolent actions spawn another morally ambiguous figure, mirroring his penchant for brutality and malice.