20 Best Music Manhwa: Melodies That Tell a Story

Imagine being the greatest musician in the world, only to wake up in an alternate reality where you never existed.

That’s the fate of HALO, a musical genius who gets isekai-ed into a world where his legacy is gone.

Determined to reclaim his throne, he embarks on a journey to rebuild his career, but this time, he’s not alone.

With newfound friends and family by his side, he sets out to prove that his music transcends time and reality.

The manhwa does an incredible job of showing how others react to HALO’s music. His fans literally obsess over his music, and their reactions make you feel like you’re hearing the songs yourself.

This is one of the best music manhwa out there, and I highly recommend it. That said, I do wish the author had made the story a bit longer… or at least given us a more extended ending.

A Tidal Wave of Glory info:

• Alternative Title: Yeonggwangui Haeillo
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 60
• Publisher: Naver Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Music, Fantasy
• Score: 81/100 (AniList), 4.1/5 (Anime Planet)

Hyeon always dreamed of pursuing music, but life had other plans. Forced into a corporate job due to family situation, his passion was buried under endless paperwork.

That is, until fate gives him a second chance. He’s reborn with prodigy-level talent and a burning resolve to chase his music dreams.

It’s the story about “screw adulthood” fantasy. Watching him rediscover his passion is incredibly satisfying.

If you’ve ever asked yourself “if only I do this back then,” this story will hit close to home.

For the Musical Genius info:

• Alternative Title: Eumakcheonjaereul Wihayeo
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 52
• Publisher: Naver Series
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Music, School Life, Second Chance, Time Travel
• Score: 76/100 (AniList), 4.1/5 (Anime Planet)

A genius composer who changed the music industry with his unmatched talent and visionary melodies meets an untimely death, leaving behind nothing but regret.

He sacrificed everything, his family, his happiness, his own life, all in the pursuit of music.

Given a second chance, he wakes up in the past, back before his greatest mistakes. This time, his passion for music remains, but his priorities have changed. He won’t just chase greatness, he’ll chase it alongside his loved ones.

This isn’t just a redemption arc, it’s a symphony of second chances. Watch him craft chart-topping bangers while turning family road trips into impromptu lyric-writing sessions.

Return of a Crazy Genius Composer info:

• Alternative Title: Mangnani Cheonjae Jakgokga Hoegwihada
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 57+
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Kakao Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Fantasy, Second Chance, Time Travel, Music
• Score: 75/100 (AniList), 3.9/5 (Anime Planet)

Woojin gave up his dream of becoming a singer to take care of his mother and niece.

Just when he thinks his chance at stardom is gone forever, an AI robot shows up claiming it can help him achieve his goals. His life then takes an unexpected turn.

There’s one word that fits this manhwa: wholesome. Woojin’s transformation from a struggling carpenter to a global sensation is filled with ups and downs, but his determination never wavers.

It’s a feel-good story that proves it’s never too late to chase your dreams.

My Uncle is a Superstar info:

• Alternative Title: Uri Samchoneun World Star
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 186
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Mr.Blue
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Fantasy, Showbiz, System Administrator, Music
• Score: 75/100 (AniList), 4.1/5 (Anime Planet)

Yoon Hajoon spent his life chasing a dream that always felt just out of reach. His lack of talent, poor decisions, and relentless pursuit of success led him to lose everything.

When he suddenly wakes up in the past, he realizes something crucial: his younger sister is a musical genius!

This time, he won’t compete, he’ll be the one to guide her to the top as a composer. This is a touching story of family, redemption, and the price of talent.

My Younger Sibling Was a Genius info:

• Alternative Title: Dongsaengi Cheonjaeyeotda
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 56+
• Publisher: Naver Series
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Slice of Life, Second Chance, Time Travel, Music
• Score: 73/100 (AniList), 3.9/5 (Anime Planet)

What if one of the greatest composers in history got a second chance? Beethoven Born Again brings Ludwig van Beethoven back to life, this time in modern-day Seoul.

After suffering from the agony of losing his hearing, Beethoven’s passion for music never faded, even in death.

Now reincarnated, he gets the opportunity to experience the world in a new era, one where he can finally hear his own music again.

This unique take on reincarnation blends historical brilliance with contemporary struggles, making it a must-read for anyone who loves both classical music and compelling storytelling.

Beethoven Born Again info:

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 60+
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Kakao Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Music, Reincarnation
• Score: 3.9/5 (Anime Planet)

Imagine losing everything, your career, your identity, and then waking up in someone else’s body.

That’s what happens to Lee Siyoon, whose promising piano career ends after a car accident leaves his right hand immobile. When he decided to end everything, he wakes up in the body of a Russian heiress.

Now, he finds himself pursuing music in ways he never imagined. This unique blend of cultural exploration and musical storytelling creates a mesmerizing reading experience.

Personally, I like the premise and story, but I’m not a fan of how the author portrays the main character. He (or she now) is too insecure and lacking development.

Also, the author introduced a “Korean” genius dude in the early chapters for no reason, only to make him vanish shortly after.

The Dawn in Moscow info:

• Alternative Title: Moscow-ui Yeomyeong
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 130
• Publisher: Naver Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Classical Music, Gender Bender, Music, School Life
• Score: 64/100 (AniList), 3.8/5 (Anime Planet)

A talentless guy desperate to play music accidentally summons ghosts of legendary musicians. Beethoven? Mozart? They’re his new (very dead) mentors. That’s the premise of this manhwa.

This manhwa beautifully blends reverence for classical music with a heartfelt journey of perseverance. The protagonist’s struggles feel real, and the historical cameos add a layer of awe-inspiring depth.

I Am With the Music Immortals info:

• Alternative Title: Eumag-ui Sindeulgwa Hamkkehanda
• Status: Hiatus
• Chapters: 69+
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Kakao Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Fantasy, Music
• Score: 85/100 (AniList), 3.7/5 (Anime Planet)

What if you get the “status system” you always wanted, but it says “if you don’t debut as an Idol, you die.”

Our protagonist, who had been preparing for the Civil Service exam, suddenly finds himself transported three years into the past, inside the body of a struggling idol trainee.

With no way out, he must now navigate the intense world of idol competitions, fan expectations, and relentless training to secure his debut.

A gripping story about resilience and raw talent (and system help), this manhwa highlights the immense pressure of the entertainment industry.

Debut or Die! info:

• Alternative Title: Debut Mot Hamyeon Jungneun Byeong Geollim
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 70+
• Publisher: Kakao Page
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Fantasy, Idols, Showbiz, Time Travel
• Score: 81/100 (AniList), 4.5/5 (Anime Planet)

What if your biggest regret in life was neglecting someone who mattered most? The protagonist dedicates his life to music but neglects his daughter in the process.

After regretting it for years, he gets a chance to make things right when he realizes she’s blossoming into an extraordinary musician.

It’s a gut-punch story about family and regret. Watching the father-daughter relationship evolve is both heartwarming and bittersweet.

If you’re a sucker for familial bonds and second chances, this story will stay with you long after you finish it.

My Daughter, the Music Prodigy info:

• Alternative Title: Nae Ttareun Eumakcheonjae
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 110
• Publisher: Kakao Page
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Fantasy, Slice of Life, Second Chance, Time Travel, Music
• Score: 73/100 (AniList), 3.9/5 (Anime Planet)

After failing as an idol, Si-Yoon thought his dreams were over. But fate gives him a second shot. He wakes up as his 17-year-old self, armed with memories of his failed idol career.

This time, he’s determined to rewrite history and take the K-pop world no matter what it takes.

The manhwa captures the grind of idol life perfectly, from grueling practice sessions to fierce competition.

What sets it apart is Si-Yoon’s determination and clever use of his “future knowledge” to navigate challenges.

It’s a thrilling ride for anyone who loves underdog stories and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the entertainment world.

Second Life Millionaire info:

• Alternative Title: Insaeng 2-hoecha Manneung Idol
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 85+
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Kakao Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Idols, Second Chance, Showbiz, Time Travel
• Score: 69/100 (AniList), 3.8/5 (Anime Planet)

Joo-won Moon is a violin prodigy whose skills seem almost supernatural. Why? Because he might actually be the reincarnation of Paganini, one of history’s greatest musicians.

Is Joo-won truly a reincarnated genius, or is there more to his talent than meets the eye? Or some hidden story? Either way, watching him play is mesmerizing.

If you’re fascinated by prodigies and their secrets, this one’s worth checking out.

High School Musical Genius Is Paganini Reincarnated info:

• Alternative Title: Yesulgo Eumakcheonjaeneun Hwansaenghan Paganini
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 47+
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Kakao Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Music, Reincarnation, School Life
• Score: 83/100 (AniList), 3.9/5 (Anime Planet)

Minhee was once a piano prodigy until a single mistake shattered her confidence and career.

Now, lost and broken, she crosses paths with Eun Hyun, a humble neighborhood piano teacher who has his own tragic past.

Together, they try to heal their wounds through music, proving that even broken melodies can be beautiful.

This story is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with deep character development and raw, heartfelt moments.

Broken Melody info:

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 89
• Publisher: Lezhin
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Romance, Music, Psychological
• Score: 75/100 (AniList), 4.0/5 (Anime Planet)

Kim Han-seok lived a legendary life as a singer-songwriter, crafting timeless hits with nothing but his guitar.

But when he wakes up 30 years later as a college student in the streaming era, he realizes the music industry has changed drastically. In the streaming era, he must find a way to make his mark once again.

This manhwa is a fascinating mix of nostalgia and innovation. Watching Kim navigate modern trends while staying true to his roots is both funny and inspiring.

It’s also a love letter to classic music fans who’ve ever wondered how their favorite artists would fare today.

Musician Genius Who Lives Twice info:

• Alternative Title: Du Beon Saneun Eumakcheonjae
• Status: Finishied
• Chapters: 75
• Publisher: Naver Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Music
• Score: 64/100 (AniList), 3.7/5 (Anime Planet)

Hyun-Woo, once an idol with a promising future, had his dreams crushed by industry politics and personal misfortune. But when he regresses to his trainee days, he refuses to let history repeat itself.

Armed with the wisdom of his past failures, he’s ready to conquer the cutthroat world of idols. Whatever it takes to debut, he will stay at the top.

The manhwa doesn’t sugarcoat K-pop’s dark side, but his quiet confidence (and killer dance moves) will have you rooting for him like he’s your ult bias.

Second Try Idol info:

• Alternative Title: Dasi Hanbeon Idol
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 165
• Publisher: Kakao Page
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Idols, Second Chance, Showbiz, Time Travel
• Score: 66/100 (AniList), 3.8/5 (Anime Planet)

Hoyeon Cheon is just another corporate worker until a twist of fate, and a rockstar ghost change everything.

Possessed by the spirit of a legendary musician, he suddenly finds himself thrust into the world of superstardom. No more spreadsheets, only stage dives and karaoke battles.

This manhwa is pure fun, blending comedy with a heartfelt exploration of fame and legacy. Watching Hoyeon transform from an ordinary office worker into a superstar is endlessly entertaining.

Superstar Associate Manager info:

• Alternative Title: Superstar Cheon-daeri
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 92
• Publisher: Naver Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Fantasy
• Score: 76/100 (AniList), 3.9/5 (Anime Planet)

On Haje is a handsome trainee who seems destined for greatness, until he finds himself trapped in a bizarre idol-nurturing game system that forces him to start over.

Now, with an idol-nurturing game system forcing him back into the industry, he must strategize his way to the top.

This manhwa uniquely blends game mechanics with the K-pop industry, making it a fun and engaging read. Haje’s journey from skepticism to embracing his new reality is both funny and inspiring.

Genius Idol’s Celebrity Strategy info:

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 40+
• Publisher: Kakao Page
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Idols, Showbiz
• Score: 3.7/5 (Anime Planet)

Sun Woojoo never had luck on his side. But after waking up from a car accident, he discovers an incredible new ability: he can copy any movement he sees.

His once-hopeless dance skills are now flawless, and he suddenly has a real shot at becoming an idol.

A fun and thrilling take on talent development in the entertainment world. Woojoo’s rise from clumsy underdog to precision-perfect performer is like watching a Pokemon evolve mid-battle.

This Life’s Universal Superstar info:

• Alternative Title: Ibeon Saengeun Ujudae-Star, In This Life, the Greatest Star in the Universe
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 73+
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Kakao Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Idols, Showbiz, Supernatural
• Score: 73/100 (AniList), 3.7/5 (Anime Planet)

Daehwa Kim was a piano prodigy who lost his passion and dropped out of a prestigious performing arts school. But just as he rediscovers his love for the instrument at 30, tragedy strikes.

After a fatal accident, he wakes up as a high school student again. Now, he’s racing to fall in love with music again, with something he’s never felt before.

Da Capo (The Life of a Piano Genius)’s art turns piano keys into emotional rollercoasters in an amazing way, making it feel like fantasy stuff.

Da Capo (OBOSO) info:

• Alternative Title: Piano Cheonjaeui Yego Saenghwal
• Status: Finished
• Chapters: 61
• Publisher: Kakao Page, Kakao Webtoon
• Genres/Themes: Drama, Music, Second Chance, Time Travel
• Score: 71/100 (AniList), 3.7/5 (Anime Planet)

Sang-Jun was a talentless idol, until he got access to a mysterious talent library that allows him to “borrow” the skills of the greatest musicians in history. With this power, he sets out to become the ultimate artist.

This manhwa is a delightful mix of fantasy and ambition. Each borrowed talent comes with its own challenges, keeping the story fresh and unpredictable.

If you’ve ever wished you could borrow someone else’s genius, this one will speak to your inner dreamer.

Top Star’s Talent Library info:

• Alternative Title: Top Star Jaeneung Seogo
• Status: Ongoing
• Chapters: 74+
• Publisher: Kakao Page
• Genres/Themes: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Idols, Showbiz
• Score: 68/100 (AniList), 3.5/5 (Anime Planet)

The Power of Music in Manhwa

Music manhwa does something incredible, it makes you hear the music without a single sound. We can’t hear it (literally), but we feel the music, the excitement and the story behind it.

Through expressive artwork, emotional storytelling, and intense performances, these stories bring melodies to life in a way that feels almost real.

The passion of a struggling artist, the thrill of a perfect performance, and the heartbreak of failure all come through on the page, pulling readers deep into the world of music.

So, which one are you picking up first? Or maybe you have some good music manhwa that we missed in this list? Share your favorites here!