10 Most Underrated Romance Manhwas You Need to Read

Romance manhwas are brimming with heartfelt stories, swoon-worthy characters, and unforgettable relationships — yet many incredible series remain in the shadows of viral hits like True Beauty or Who Made Me a Princess. If you’re looking for hidden gems that offer just as much emotional punch and character depth, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are the 10 most underrated romance manhwas that every fan should add to their reading list — including a surprise K-pop twist you didn’t know you needed.

1. Light and Shadow

A historical slow-burn filled with secrets, betrayal, and unexpected affection. When Edna, a former maid, is forced into a political marriage, she hides her past while developing a reluctant romance with her powerful new husband.

Why it’s underrated: Often overlooked due to its historical setting, but its emotionally intense romance and powerful lead female character are must-sees.

2. Beware the Villainess!

A fan-favorite among feminist readers, this manhwa turns the villainess trope upside down. Melissa is reincarnated into a romance novel — but she’s not here for toxic love interests or damsel behavior.

Why it’s underrated: Wildly entertaining and sharp-witted, but often dismissed as just “comedy” when it’s so much more.

3. I’ll Be the Matriarch in This Life

Firentia returns to her childhood after a tragic death and uses her second chance to claim power, outsmart her enemies, and find love — on her own terms.

Why it’s underrated: The mix of business politics and heartfelt romance makes it stand out, but its slow pacing deters casual readers.

4. Seasons of Blossom

A soft, melancholic manhwa that explores different teen relationships across seasons — from first love to healing from past pain.

Why it’s underrated: Its quiet emotional storytelling gets overshadowed by flashier, dramatic titles.

5. Positively Yours

After a one-night stand turns into a surprise pregnancy, Hee-won and Do-jun slowly transition from strangers into a supportive, loving couple.

Why it’s underrated: Handles mature themes with sensitivity and realism — no forced drama, just real love.

6. A Good Day to Be a Dog

Every time Hana kisses someone, she transforms into a dog. This quirky curse leads her into an unexpectedly deep relationship with the one man who can break it.

Why it’s underrated: The bizarre premise makes some skip it, but it’s one of the sweetest and most emotionally fulfilling reads out there.

7. The Reason Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion

In this isekai romance, Raeliana avoids her storybook death by manipulating the plot — and winning over the cold Duke Noah.

Why it’s underrated: Many overlook it as just another “villainess” manhwa, but it’s packed with charm and suspense.

8. My Bias Gets on the Last Train

A dreamy, slice-of-life romance that blends K-pop obsession with real-life connection. As a dedicated fangirl crosses paths with her idol on a late train, an unexpected relationship begins.

Why it’s underrated: It’s a rare example of a K-pop romance manhwa done right — quiet, soft, and heart-tugging without being unrealistic.

Why you’ll love it: It captures the loneliness of modern love and the hope that sometimes, your most personal fantasy can become something real.

9. The Villainess Turns the Hourglass

After being executed, Aria turns back time and starts her cold, calculated revenge — but along the way, she falls into a beautifully complex romance.

Why it’s underrated: The revenge storyline tends to take center stage, but the romance arc is deeply rewarding and worth the slow burn.

10. Something About Us

Gayoung and Woojin are best friends, but their bond starts to shift as they both mature and face real-life challenges in college. It’s a friends-to-lovers story that feels deeply honest.

Why it’s underrated: Lacks the high-drama of other manhwas, but shines with its emotional realism and nuanced storytelling.

Final Thoughts

The world of romance manhwa is so much deeper than just the viral hits. These underrated romance manhwas offer raw emotion, unique premises, and unforgettable relationships. Whether you’re into fantasy, slice-of-life, or second-chance stories, there’s something here that will steal your heart.

So take a break from the top charts and dive into these hidden gems — they might just become your new favorites.