Best anime of South Korea – Must Watch
10 Best South Korean Aeni
South Korean animation, also known as “aeni,” is becoming more popular worldwide. While it is not as widely known as Japanese anime, South Korea has created several impressive animated movies and series. These shows and films often have strong storytelling, deep themes, and unique art styles. Many of them explore social issues, fantasy, and emotions in ways that connect with audiences everywhere.
Below is a look at some of the best South Korean animated films and series that have gained global recognition.
Top Korean Anime Films
1. Leafie, A Hen Into The Wild (2011)
Adapted from a bestselling novel, this heartwarming story follows a hen who escapes captivity to raise a duckling. Celebrated as South Korea’s highest-grossing animated film, it explores themes of freedom and motherhood through lush visuals.
2. The King of Pigs (2011)
A gritty psychological thriller by Yeon Sang-ho (Train to Busan), this film tackles bullying and class inequality. Two former classmates confront their traumatic past in a narrative that exposes societal brutality.
3. Seoul Station (2016)
A prequel to Train to Busan, this zombie horror film critiques homelessness and urban alienation. Its raw animation style amplifies the tension of a Seoul overrun by the undead.
4. My Beautiful Girl, Mari (2002)
A surreal fantasy about childhood grief and imagination, this film follows a boy who discovers a magical world through a mysterious girl. Its dreamlike aesthetic draws comparisons to Studio Ghibli.
5. Yobi, The Five-Tailed Fox (2007)
Inspired by Korean folklore, this tale features a fox spirit who transforms into a human to rescue an alien. Its whimsical charm and emotional depth make it a standout.
Top Korean Anime Series
1. Tower of God (2020)
Based on the hit manhwa, this fantasy series follows Bam, a boy climbing a mysterious tower to reunite with his friend Rachel. Rich world-building and morally complex characters drive its popularity.
2. The God of High School (2020)
A martial arts tournament anime with supernatural twists, featuring protagonist Mori Jin. Praised for its fluid fight scenes and character dynamics, it adapts a beloved webtoon.
3. Noblesse (2020)
A vampire-themed action series about an aristocratic noble adjusting to modern life. Its mix of humor, lore, and stylish battles resonated with global audiences.
4. Lookism (2022)
This social satire explores beauty standards through a protagonist who switches between two bodies. It addresses bullying and identity with sharp commentary.
Notable Directors and Themes
- Yeon Sang-ho: Master of horror/social critique (The King of Pigs, Seoul Station, The Fake).
- Folklore meets modernity: Many works, like Yobi and Oseam, reimagine traditional Korean myths.
- Social issues: Bullying, poverty, and religious hypocrisy are recurring themes, reflecting South Korea’s societal challenges.
Korean anime continues to carve a niche with its willingness to confront dark themes and experiment with genre-blending narratives. From haunting dramas to action-packed spectacles, these titles showcase the country’s growing influence in global animation.
