Why You Should Read The Beginning After the End Manhwa: A Must-Read Isekai Adventure

Introduction

In the ever-expanding world of manhwa, The Beginning After the End (TBATE) stands out as a beloved isekai series that has captured the hearts of millions. Written by TurtleMe and illustrated by Fuyuki23, this fantasy epic follows King Grey, a powerful ruler who, after a mysterious death, is reincarnated as Arthur Leywin in the magical continent of Dicathen. Serialized on Tapas since July 2018 and published in English by Yen Press, TBATE has garnered widespread acclaim for its unique storytelling, vibrant artwork, and immersive world. As of July 2025, with over 200 chapters and an ongoing narrative, it’s a must-read for fans of fantasy and action. This analysis explores why TBATE is worth your time, drawing from reviews, community feedback, and its cultural impact.

Background and Context

The Beginning After the End began as a web novel on Tapas in January 2017, with the manhwa adaptation launching in July 2018. The series, blending isekai, fantasy, and action, follows Arthur Leywin as he uses his past life’s wisdom to navigate a world of magic and monsters. With over 200 chapters released by July 2025 and seven print volumes by Yen Press as of March 2025, TBATE has built a massive following. Its popularity led to an anime adaptation by Studio A-Cat in Spring 2025, though the manhwa remains the preferred medium due to mixed anime reviews. This analysis focuses on the manhwa’s strengths, addressing why it’s a compelling read for both new and seasoned fans.

Why Read The Beginning After the End

A Fresh Take on the Isekai Genre

Unlike many isekai stories where protagonists are instantly overpowered, TBATE offers a refreshing approach. Arthur Leywin, reborn as a baby, must grow through training and experience, using his past life as King Grey to make strategic decisions. This gradual progression, as noted in a Manga Librarian review, “takes some of the genre’s tropes and gives them sufficient twists to keep the audience excited and engaged.” The narrative’s focus on growth and learning makes Arthur’s journey relatable and compelling, setting TBATE apart from typical isekai fare.

Stunning, Colored Artwork

The manhwa’s vibrant, colored artwork by Fuyuki23 is a standout feature. Unlike traditional black-and-white manga, TBATE’s detailed panels bring Dicathen’s landscapes, battles, and characters to life. A GameRant article praises the art for accentuating the fantasy setting, with scenes like the Elshire Forest showcasing breathtaking visuals. This visual appeal enhances the storytelling, making every chapter a feast for the eyes.

Deep and Relatable Characters

At its core, TBATE is driven by Arthur Leywin’s evolution from a reincarnated king to a skilled mage. His relationships with characters like Sylvie, his magical bond, and his family add emotional depth. Supporting characters, such as the elf princess Tessia, are well-developed, with their own motivations and arcs. Anime UK News highlights Arthur’s struggle to adapt his past knowledge while navigating childhood, adding humor and relatability to his character.

Immersive World-Building

The world of Dicathen is a highlight, featuring a mana-based magic system, diverse kingdoms, and mythical creatures. The intricate lore, from political conflicts to magical academies, creates an immersive setting. As GameRant notes, the detailed depiction of locations like the Kingdom of Elenoir enhances the story’s depth, making readers feel part of a living, breathing world.

Balanced Action and Humor

TBATE excels in balancing high-stakes action with lighthearted moments. Intense battles, such as Arthur’s encounters with mana beasts, keep readers on edge, while his childhood antics—like struggling with diapers—provide comedic relief. Anime UK News praises these moments, noting, “There were so many instances where I couldn’t stop laughing,” making the manhwa both thrilling and endearing.

Extensive Content for Long-Term Enjoyment

With over 200 chapters as of July 2025, TBATE offers a substantial reading experience. The series, serialized on Tapas, releases weekly updates, with Chapter 225.5 published on July 6, 2025. This longevity, as highlighted by Ecency, appeals to readers seeking a long-term commitment, whether binge-reading or following along with new releases.

Passionate Fan Community

TBATE has cultivated a vibrant fanbase, with active communities on Reddit (e.g., r/BeginningAfterTheEnd) and X. Fans share theories, fan art, and discussions, enhancing the reading experience. A Reddit post with 742 votes and 334 comments underscores the series’ popularity, with readers praising its early arcs and engaging plot.

Superior to the Anime Adaptation

While an anime adaptation aired in Spring 2025 on Crunchyroll, it received mixed reviews for its animation quality, as noted in The Outerhaven. Fans, including those on Reddit, recommend the manhwa for its superior art and pacing, making it the definitive way to experience Arthur’s story.

Potential Drawbacks

Some readers, as seen in Reddit discussions, note pacing issues in later arcs, particularly after the Alacrya arc, with criticism of repetitive training sequences or side-character focus. However, many fans argue that the early arcs (up to Chapter 150) are exceptional, and the manhwa’s strengths outweigh these concerns. The ongoing status ensures potential improvements as the story progresses.

Where to Read

You can read TBATE on Tapas, where it’s serialized with over 200 chapters, or in print via Yen Press, with seven volumes as of March 2025. Both platforms offer high-quality English translations, making the series accessible globally.

Key Information Table

Conclusion

The Beginning After the End is a must-read manhwa that combines a fresh isekai narrative, stunning colored artwork, and deep character development. Its immersive world, balanced action and humor, and extensive chapter count make it a standout for fans of fantasy and adventure. Despite minor pacing critiques in later arcs, the series’ early chapters and vibrant community ensure a rewarding experience. Start your journey with Arthur Leywin on Tapas or Yen Press and discover why TBATE is a beloved gem in the manhwa world.