Highlights

• Manhwa set in Europe offers a unique setting with rich cultures and captivating narratives beyond Korea.
• From historical Rome to rural France, these manhwa stories delve into gothic mysteries and mysterious tales.
• Amidst supernatural occurrences, romantic adventures, and dark themes, the European settings add depth to these manhwa.

Being a comic book format originating from South Korea, it is natural that most morning set in their country of origin. While Korea serves as an intriguing backdrop for many narratives, several manhwaga deviate from this convention by creating compelling stories set in the vast lands of Europe. With its rich ancient history and scenic landscapes, the European continent serves as the perfect canvas for a profound narrative.

Although often lumped together as a single territory, the European continent comprises over fifty sovereign nations, each brimming with new cultures and traditions. From the cobblestone streets of London to the modern skywalks of Prague, manhwa set in this vibrant continent present a picturesque setting that can rarely be rivaled.

7 Solo for two

Set in the Austro-Hungarian Empire (modern-day Austria)

Despite being an account of a ballerina's rekindled love, Solo for two delves into all sorts of mature themes, from war and trauma to unrequited feelings. Set in Austria-Hungary Set during the year 1911, the manhwa slowly steers the narrative towards the outbreak of World War I, an event that shapes much of the affair between the two lovers.

However, Solo for two The nuance comes not from its political intrigue, nor from its historical accuracy. Instead, it is the blossoming romance between two gay men that sets the stage for a love epic.

6 The long path of the warrior

Set in Ancient Rome

Manhwa based in Europe are already rare, let alone a historical account that mixes two ancient kingdoms for a dramatic story. The Long Path of the Warrior does just that, albeit with a fantasy twist. Set in the Roman Empire in the 2nd century, this manhwa uses the brutal landscape of a fallen empire to tell the story of a Goguryeo (modern-day Korea) warrior who is sold to the Romans as a gladiator slave.

Historical manhwa about Korea itself are common, but an account that presents the dynamics between two ancient kingdoms is certainly a first. In addition to the accurate world-building, The Long Path of the Warrior has a big focus on gladiator matches, which means that action is also present in the plot.

5 Maiden in the sky

Set in rural England

Right off the bat, Maiden in the Sky acquaints readers with the supernatural mysteries that will unfold in the horror-filled Taylor Mansion. The English setting further gives this horror-filled mansion a somewhat Victorian appeal, furthering the manhwa's mysterious plot.

Despite being marketed as a Girls Love manhwa Maiden in the Sky rarely delves into any GL subtext, with horror and suspense being the main themes. With a series of murders and supernatural occurrences taking center stage, there is little room for romance of any kind.

4 The Pale Horse

Set in rural France

While European cities are known for inspiring poetic subjects and romantic tales, their rural counterparts often serve as foci for dark tales and gothic mysteries. The Pale Horse features a similar premise, with a series of mysteries taking over a small town somewhere in rural France.

Demonic entities, witch trials, and murders take over the village, turning the entire narrative into a macabre mess. The main characters are also riddled with trauma and despair-filled backstories, but the manhwa doubles down on even more chaos. With suffering at its core, an air of sadness takes over the narrative, immersing readers in the same depressing atmosphere.

3 Jack the Ripper: Hellblade

Set in Victorian London

Jack the Ripper: Hellblade is a manhwa take on the notorious serial killer who mutilated women in London in 1888. However, this retelling of the horrific story expands on the supernatural side of things, including vampires, the Holy Sea, and all sorts of gothic entities.

With Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson on the case, along with several supporting characters, Jack the Ripper: Hellblade takes on its own unique identity with its many eccentricities. Overall, this manhwa does justice to the Victorian-era setting through its dark and mysterious art style.

2 Good luck

Located in Menorca, Spain

Good luck utilizes the charm of Spain to create a moving tale of two male lovers who slowly rediscover their feelings and sexuality. Being a mafia love story, this manhwa doesn’t exactly offer anything unique, although its novelty lies in its panoramic European setting, along with a roster of characters that immediately capture the readers’ attention.

Although the premise of Good luck may point to a gentle and innocent affair between two men, the manhwa still delves into some lewd themes. With layered characters and stunning art, Good luck not only highlights the beauty of Spain, but also highlights the allure of same-sex stories.

1 100 days in Europe

Located in several European countries (Spain, Czech Republic, Italy, France)

Romantic stories are common in the manhwa landscape, but only a few come close to the romantic adventures of 100 days in Europe. With multiple fated encounters between the two love interests across the continent, the manhwa plays with the notion of a fascinating love affair in European cities known for their romantic allure.

Despite being a slow-paced story, the growing affection between Gia and Hayden against the backdrop of Prague, Venice and Barcelona transforms the narrative into nothing less than an escapist fantasy. With descriptive scenes, cultural exploration and character growth, 100 days in Europe checks all the boxes for an almost poetic tale.