The Hallyu wave is no
longer just about catchy music or gripping dramas; it has expanded into the
vibrant world of digital comics. As Manhwa (Korean comics) and Webtoons
continue to dominate global charts, a fascinating crossover has emerged: the
collaboration between top-tier K-pop idols and Webtoon creators. These
soundtracks (OSTs) bring a cinematic atmosphere to the scrolling experience,
blurring the lines between auditory and visual storytelling.
In this article, we
explore some of the most iconic moments where K-pop royalty lent their voices
to the world of Manhwa.
Jungkook (BTS) – “Stay Alive” (Prod. Suga)
Manhwa: 7FATES:
CHAKHO
Perhaps the most high-profile collaboration in Webtoon history,
BTS’s Jungkook released “Stay Alive” for the urban fantasy Manhwa 7FATES:
CHAKHO. Produced by fellow member Suga, the track perfectly captures the
haunting and gritty atmosphere of the story’s futuristic setting. The song
didn’t just top the charts; it proved that Webtoon OSTs can compete with
mainstream hits on global platforms like Spotify and Billboard.
Stray
Kids – “TOP” & “SLUMP”
Manhwa: Tower
of God
When the legendary Manhwa Tower of God received its anime and
Webtoon promotion, Stray Kids was the perfect choice to lead the soundtrack.
“TOP” is an energetic anthem that reflects the struggle and ambition
of climbing the tower, while “SLUMP” offers a more emotional, introspective
vibe. Stray Kids’ unique “Stray” sound resonated deeply with fans of
the series’ dark and complex narrative.
ENHYPEN – “One In A Billion”
Manhwa: DARK
MOON: THE BLOOD ALTAR
ENHYPEN’s collaboration with the Dark Moon series
is a masterclass in cross-platform branding. “One In A Billion”
captures the supernatural, vampire-themed romance of the Manhwa. The chemistry
between the group’s concept and the story’s plot was so seamless that the OST
became an essential part of the Dark Moon identity for its millions of
readers. The anime adaptation will begin airing January 10, 2026.
Cha Eun-woo (Astro) – “Don’t Cry My Love”
Manhwa: Under the Oak Tree
From idol to leading man, Cha Eun-woo brings the emotional heart of the beloved fantasy romance to life. His delicate, crystalline vocals perfectly embody the yearning and tender devotion between protagonists. More than a simple soundtrack, “Don’t Cry My Love” feels like a direct confession from the pages. The track solidified the manhwa’s atmospheric depth, making the story’s most intimate moments resonate long after the final panel.
Why
These Collaborations Matter
These OSTs are more than
just marketing tools. They bridge the gap between different fandoms. A K-pop
fan might start reading a Manhwa because of their “bias,” while a
dedicated reader might discover a new favorite K-pop group through a perfectly
timed soundtrack.
For those looking for a
deeper dive into these stories, checking out professional reviews can help you
decide which series to start next. You can find detailed analysis and
recommendations on platforms like Manhuw.com, where the intersection
of storytelling and art is explored in depth.
Conclusion
The synergy between K-pop
and Manhwa is only getting stronger. As more webtoons get adapted into
live-action dramas and animations, we can expect even more legendary
collaborations. Whether it’s an energetic track for a fantasy battle or a soft
ballad for a high school romance, K-pop idols are proving to be the perfect
narrators for our favorite digital panels.
About the Author: Mahir
is the founder of Manhuw.com, a
platform dedicated to high-quality Manhwa reviews, industry trends, and
providing a premium reading experience for fans worldwide.
