Global Webtoon Excellence: 26 Digital Masterpieces Shortlisted for Prestigious 2025 World Awards

Seoul, South Korea – The digital comics world is currently abuzz with excitement as the 2025 World Webtoon Awards unveil its highly anticipated shortlist of 26 titles. These nominees are set to contend for the industry's most prestigious main prizes, celebrating unparalleled excellence across the rapidly expanding global webtoon landscape.

Now in its second year, the awards are proudly hosted by South Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in a strategic partnership with the Korea Creative Content Agency. This collaboration underscores the nation's continued leadership in the dynamic medium of webtoons.

From an impressive initial pool of 99 candidates and an overwhelming 1,300+ reader recommendations worldwide, the selected 26 titles truly embody the industry's rich diversity. The shortlist features a compelling mix of 23 groundbreaking Korean works alongside 3 acclaimed Japanese creations, highlighting the awards' broadening international reach and cross-cultural appeal.

Each nominated work underwent a rigorous evaluation process, meticulously assessed by a distinguished panel of top-tier domestic webtoon platform experts. This panel operated under the discerning leadership of esteemed Jury Chairman Lee Hyun-se.

The grand awards ceremony is slated for October 22, 2025, at the iconic Lotte Cinema World Tower in Seoul. The event promises an evening of celebration and recognition for the creators and their innovative works.

This year marks an exciting evolution with the introduction of the new 'Readers' Choice Award.' This initiative empowers fans globally to actively participate in the awards process. From September 1 through October 21, enthusiasts can cast their votes online for their favorite webtoons, with weekly voting rights and exciting prize draws adding an interactive dimension to the awards.

Winners will be honored across ten distinct main prize categories, including the coveted Grand Prize and the esteemed Jury Chairman’s Award. This landmark event not only reaffirms Korea’s pivotal role in the global webtoon market but also stands as a testament to the innovative storytelling and artistic brilliance flourishing within the digital comic community. The diverse lineup promises to spotlight a rich spectrum of genres, styles, and narratives, fostering greater creativity and cultural exchange.