Life in Imagination

 

At a bar on the first day of school, Go Shinjae, a tall and handsome dance major student from a prominent family, hears drunk Baek Hanbin, a pale photography student with huge tacky glasses, confessing his love towards a person he met online in a game. The drunken love confession Go Shinjae would’ve normally laughed off, was a bit strange. For some reason, the person that drunk guy likes seems to be him. The next day, Go Shinjae decides to shrug it off but Baek Hanbin walks into the classroom of an elective Go Shinjae’s taking. On top of that, Go Shinjae and Baek Hanbin end up becoming a group for the rest of the semester. What will happen to these two both offline and online?

My Rate: 7

Heal, Heal, Heal! is a BL manhwa that blends the "hidden identity" trope with a cozy, gaming-centric romance. Written by JINLAMB and Domi, with art by Keimjae, it has gained a following for its sweet, slightly awkward dynamic between the leads. The story follows Baek Hanbin, a shy photography student who wears oversized glasses and keeps to himself. On the first day of school, he gets drunk and accidentally confesses his love for someone he met in an online game... while standing right in front of Go Shinjae, a handsome and popular dance major. Shinjae quickly realizes that he is the person Hanbin is in love with online. However, Hanbin has no idea that his suave in-game partner and his intimidating real-life classmate are the same person. The drama heightens when the two are paired up for a semester-long project. The core of the manhwa is the contrast between how the characters act online versus in person. In-game they are confident, flirtatious, and deeply connected. In-person Hanbin is a nervous wreck, and Shinjae is intrigued (and occasionally mischievous) as he watches Hanbin struggle to keep his "secret" crush hidden. Keimjae’s art is a highlight. The character designs are distinct—Shinjae has the sharp, elegant look of a dancer, while Hanbin’s "tacky" glasses and soft features make his "hidden gem" transformation later in the story feel rewarding. The tone is generally lighthearted and comedic. While it deals with the anxiety of unrequited love and social awkwardness, it avoids heavy angst. The "slow burn" comes from Shinjae deciding how and when to reveal the truth, leading to plenty of "secondhand embarrassment" humor. If you enjoyed titles like Net-juu no Susume (Recovery of an MMO Junkie) or Semantic Error, you will likely enjoy this. It’s a classic "identity reveal" story that focuses more on character chemistry than intense external conflict.

Returning student, Junseob lied to his underclassmen that he was dating Seryeong, the campus goddess. However, Seryeong's identity is that of a crossdresser, and instead of pretending to be his girlfriend, Seryeong demands a relationship.

My Rate: 7

"Campus Secret Girlfriend" (produced by Ant Studio with art/story by Bae) has carved out a niche as a high-quality, "popcorn" romance manhwa. While Ant Studio is often known for high-fantasy works like Solo Leveling or The Villainess Turns the Hourglass, this series shows their ability to apply that same polished aesthetic to a modern college setting. The story follows Junseob, a relatively low-profile college student who accidentally discovers that the campus "Goddess"—Seryeoung—is actually a crossdressing man: he has a secret persona that contradicts her loveable reputation. Having Junseob lied to his friends, telling them Seryeoung is his girlfriend, to keep his secret safe, they enter into a "fake" relationship that quickly becomes complicated by real feelings, at least from Junseob side. Since this is an Ant Studio production, the art is arguably the biggest selling point. The "visual chemistry" between the leads is top-tier. Seryeoung’s transition between her "cold campus beauty" look and his "relaxed secret self" is handled with great detail. It uses a warm, vibrant palette that fits the lighthearted romantic comedy vibe, making it very "bingeable." The plot leans heavily on classic tropes: fake dating, secret identities, and the "he-knows-her-true-self" dynamic. The humor is well-timed, and the stakes feel relatable. It captures the social pressures of university life and the "masking" people do to fit in. If you are looking for a groundbreaking, deep subversion of the genre, you might find it predictable. It follows the "contract relationship" roadmap fairly closely. The interaction between Junseob and Seryeoung is genuinely sweet, at least after the first two chapter. Unlike many "secret relationship" stories where the one lead is toxic or overbearing, Seryeoung is portrayed as funny and uncomplicated, which makes the romance feel light and good. Low-stress, "fluff" romances with occasional misunderstandings.

 

Falling head over heels for your professor at first sight and then deciding to woo him is not the best idea, but Hansol is willing to make terrible life choices for the sake of love. But then it turns out, Professor Baek Minjoon is the boomer to end all boomers. Is his stuck-up mindset going to ruin this romance, or can Hansol overcome this unexpected obstacle?

My Rate: 7 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/boomer)

Be My Boomer by BaeRipoteo and JoSamanru is a contemporary BL manhwa that has gained a dedicated following for its mix of academic tension, age-gap dynamics, and surprisingly tender character growth. The story follows Hansol, a bold and energetic university student who develops an intense crush on his stern, older professor. While the "student-teacher" trope is a staple in the genre, Be My Boomer plays with the generation gap (hence the title) and the friction between Hansol’s modern, impulsive attitude and the Professor's more traditional, reserved lifestyle. The series starts with a somewhat "sketchy" or one-sided pursuit, but it evolves into a genuine partnership. The Professor isn't just a cold archetype; he has reasons for his boundaries, and Hansol learns to respect those as they grow closer. Much of the charm comes from the Professor trying to navigate Hansol’s world. The title is a playful jab at their age difference and the clash of their respective "eras." The visuals are clean and expressive, particularly in how they convey the Professor’s transition from a stiff academic to someone visibly flustered by Hansol’s affection. It balances humor and "spicy" moments well, though it leans more into the emotional connection and "cute" interactions in the later chapters. If you enjoy the age-gap or academic romance tropes, this is a must-read. It manages to stay lighthearted and sweet without losing the tension that makes the "forbidden" nature of a student-teacher relationship engaging.

 

By day, Cheong-hyeon is the picture of professionalism: calm, composed, and the ideal boss. To his assistant Tae-in, he’s the definition of cool. But behind the scenes? Cheonghyun is a full-blown BL otaku! One day, something unexpected happens: Tae-in starts to resemble the main character from Cheong-hyeon’s favorite series a little too closely... As fantasy and reality begin to blur, Cheong-hyeon finds himself falling - and feeling - hard for his real-life leading man.

My Rate: 7 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/reality_lover)

Reality Lover, written and illustrated by YP, is a popular BL manhwa known for its "grumpy x sunshine" dynamic and high-quality artwork. The story follows Chunghyun, a stern, scary, and highly disciplined team leader at his company. However, Chunghyun harbors a secret: he is an avid fan of hardcore BL novels. His double life is thrown into chaos when he buys a new novel and realizes the main character looks exactly like his handsome and cheerful office junior, Taein. Things take a turn for the scandalous when Taein accidentally discovers Chunghyun’s secret and decides to use it as leverage to get closer to his boss—revealing that his own "sunny" personality might be hiding a much more assertive side. YP’s art style is frequently praised for being "clean and sexy." The character designs are distinct, with a clear contrast between the rugged, older Chunghyun and the younger, sleek Taein. The humor often stems from the gap between Chunghyun’s terrifying office persona and his bashful, fanboy inner thoughts. If you enjoy the "Strict Boss x Playful Junior" trope, this hits all the marks. The power dynamic shifts interestingly once Taein takes control of the secret. Read it if you love workplace romances with high-quality "beefy" character designs and don't mind a story that leans heavily into smut and tropes.

I thought I was a beta all my life, but it turns out I'm an omega! And not just any omega, but one who’s about to become the crown princess. Not only am I confused by shattered images of my past and the cumbersome imperial etiquette…most of all, I’m confused by my supposedly destined union with the so-called “golden alpha,” crown prince Wookyung. Besides, I’m a man - how am I supposed to get pregnant?! But my desperation to avoid carrying his baby is only making the crown prince more and more upset… Something is in the air, and it’s not just love…

My Rate: 7 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/bebe_en)

If you’re looking for a refreshing take on the Alpha/Beta/Omega (ABO) trope, "In the Air: Be, Be" by Hamju, Sisu, and Windhuk is a hidden gem that balances heat with genuine tenderness. Set in a contemporary South Korea where the monarchy still reigns, this story blends royal duty with the fated connections of the Omegaverse. The story centers on Gong Wookyung, the heir to the throne and a rare "Golden Alpha." As a Golden Alpha, he possesses power far beyond the average, but it comes with a catch: he is completely numb to the pheromones of any Omega unless they are his "destined mate." At the age of ten, Wookyung met twelve-year-old Lee Baekwoo and immediately recognized him as his destiny. Based on this childhood declaration, the Emperor and Empress struck a secret marriage pact with Baekwoo’s mother. However, the "fate" was a bit one-sided! For Baekwoo, that meeting was entirely forgettable. Unaware of the royal contract, he grew up living a perfectly normal life without any special privileges. Now 22 and a busy architecture student focused on his final exams, Baekwoo’s life is turned upside down when the Prince reappears with a startling announcement: they are to be married in two months. What makes this manhwa particularly sweet is the subversion of typical ABO dynamics. Despite being the "Golden Alpha" and a royal, Wookyung doesn’t dominate the relationship in a toxic way. Because Wookyung is younger than Baekwoo, there is a natural sense of respect. At times, Baekwoo even seems to hold the "upper hand" in their dynamic, making the relationship feel much more balanced than your average Omegaverse story. In a lovely departure from the genre's tropes, both protagonists are virgins. Watching them explore "everything"—and I mean everything—together for the first time adds a layer of vulnerability that softens the usual intensity of Alpha/Omega stories. The visual style is clean and captivating. While the story features plenty of explicit scenes, they never feel gratuitous. Instead, they are woven seamlessly into the narrative. In fact, the plot is so engaging that I found myself occasionally skimming the steamier moments just to see what happened next in the story! There is very little "heavy" drama here. Instead of angst and conflict, In the Air: Be, Be focuses on the developing bond between two people navigating a life-changing contract. It’s a low-stress, high-reward comfort read that proves the Omegaverse can be just as sweet as it is spicy.

 

Caught in the clutches of an abusive relationship, Sooin longs to escape. A vampire who finds human blood repulsive, Chi-hwan only drinks the blood of other vampires. When chance brings the two together, Chi-hwan makes Sooin an enticing proposal. Chi-hwan will help Sooin get out of his living hell, and in exchange...Sooin has to let Chi-hwan drink his blood. Will this proposal change both their lives for the better?

My Rate: 7 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/dine_vampire)

Dine With a Vampire is a BL manhwa written by PANGIN and illustrated by PINKO. It stands out in the vampire genre for its focus on psychological healing and the transition from an abusive dynamic to a healthy, consensual one. The story follows Joo Sooin, a young man trapped in a horrific, abusive relationship with his "best friend," Sungha, who blackmails him with private photos. Desperate and hollowed out by trauma, Sooin meets Park Chi-hwan, a vampire who has a unique problem: he finds regular human blood repulsive and can only survive by drinking the blood of other vampires (which involves killing them). However, Chi-hwan discovers that Sooin’s blood is the only human blood he can stomach. They strike a dark deal: Chi-hwan will "dispose" of Sooin’s abuser in exchange for Sooin becoming his permanent blood source. What begins as a transactional arrangement evolves into a deep, domestic bond as Chi-hwan helps Sooin reclaim his humanity. The manhwa plays with the concept of who the real "monster" is. While Chi-hwan is a supernatural predator, he is consistently more empathetic, patient, and respectful than the humans in the story. The narrative highlights that monstrosity is defined by one's actions and lack of empathy, not their species. Unlike many BL titles that gloss over the effects of abuse, Dine With a Vampire treats Sooin’s recovery with gravity. He doesn't "get over it" immediately; he suffers from low self-esteem, nightmares, and a "victim's mindset" that takes the entire series to unlearn. Watching him slowly regain his agency is one of the most rewarding aspects of the story. PINKO's art style is sleek and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the gothic yet modern vibe. The character designs are distinct, and the use of "the gaze"—how characters look at one another—is a recurring visual theme that emphasizes Sooin's journey from being an object of hatred to an object of affection. Once Sooin is away from his abuser, the relationship between him and Chi-hwan is surprisingly sweet and domestic. Chi-hwan is a "green flag" lead who waits for Sooin's consent and encourages his independence, which provides a necessary balance to the dark themes of the early chapters. The early chapters are very dark, featuring domestic abuse, SA, and psychological torture. It is not a lighthearted read. Read it if you enjoy "healing" romances with a supernatural twist and don't mind navigating heavy themes of trauma, Dine With a Vampire is a top-tier choice. It is far more substantive than your average vampire smut, offering a touching look at what it means to be "human."

 

A charming young man with a job at one of the top firms in Korea, Param is a catch by everyone’s standards. However, he has a couple secrets that could topple his hard-won elite status: Param is gay, and has an oversensitive body that gets turned on at the slightest touch. So far, he’s coped by hiding his crush on his boss and taking care of “emergencies” in the office bathroom. But one day, he’s caught redhanded by the new personal trainer at the company gym. Will this hot, smirking jock ruin Param's life, or turn out to be his remedy?

My Rate: 7 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/anti_pt_en)

Anti P.T. by Lee Gpiee is a popular BL manhwa known for balancing a high-heat, "smutty" premise with surprisingly healthy relationship dynamics and character growth. The story follows Param, a successful office worker with a massive secret: he has an hypersensitive body that reacts intensely to even the slightest touch. To manage his "urges" and his crush on his handsome boss, Mr. Han, he joins the company gym. There, he is caught in a compromising moment by Hwi, a blunt and muscular personal trainer. Hwi offers to help Param "train" his body to be less sensitive—which, as you can imagine, leads to much more than just lifting weights. Despite the "blackmail" beginning (a common trope in the genre), Hwi quickly evolves into a supportive, observant, and genuinely caring partner. The series is often praised for avoiding the toxic "non-con" tropes prevalent in older BL. Unlike many stories where the second lead is just a plot device, the rivalry between Hwi and Mr. Han feels earned. It creates genuine tension as Param has to choose between his long-term fantasy (the boss) and his reality (the trainer). Param isn't just a "damsel." He has a stable career and realistic adult concerns. The story touches on self-acceptance and the shame associated with high libido or "atypical" bodies. Lee Gpiee’s art is clean and modern. The character designs are distinct, especially Hwi, who is frequently cited as "top-tier" among BL fans for his physique and soft-hearted interior. Read it if you enjoy office-setting BL and prefer stories where the characters actually communicate and respect one another. It’s a "comfort read" for many because it delivers the spice without the heavy trauma or psychological angst found in series like Killing Stalking or Painter of the Night.

 

Guster Smith has dedicated 17 years of his life to being a hero - only to remain a penniless nobody in the grand scheme. So when the esteemed archmage, Lord Angel Romero, offers him a mission to once again save the world, he accepts without hesitation. But all is not as it seems, and Guster is about to find about that the archmage has quite the “staff” he uses to work his magic…and a plethora of special techniques bound to blow the knight's mind.

My Rate: 7 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/cantcome)

You Can't Come, Sir! is a BL high-fantasy adventure with a comedic and "spicy" magical twist. Guster Smith is a seasoned hero who has spent 17 years saving the world, yet he’s ended up broke and unappreciated. Just as he’s about to retire into obscurity, the incredibly powerful (and incredibly handsome) Archmage, Lord Angel Romero, appears with a new mission. The catch? The "saving the world" part involves some very intimate magical replenishment. The story plays with the "Hero and Mage" party dynamic but turns it into a steamier, character-driven comedy. Guster Smith is the quintessential "tired veteran." He’s a "green flag" protagonist—kind, hardworking, and a bit oblivious. His struggle with being a penniless hero makes him immediately relatable and likable. The Archmage Lord Angel Romero is the classic "obsessive" lead. He is elegant, slightly manipulative in his pursuit of Guster, and possesses a deadpan humor that carries many of the scenes. The chemistry stems from his sophisticated aura clashing with Guster’s straightforward, rugged nature. The manhwa excels at subverting fantasy tropes. Seeing a legendary hero worry about his mounting debt while an Archmage tries to woo him creates a hilarious dynamic. Much like the other works by this team, the art is top-tier. The contrast between Guster’s muscular, battle-worn design and Angel’s ethereal, polished look is visually striking. While the premise is provocative and the two engage from day one in sex, the story actually takes time to build the relationship between the two, making the payoffs feel much more satisfying. If you are looking for a fantasy BL that doesn't take itself too seriously but still delivers high-quality art and great chemistry, this is a must-read. It’s perfect for fans who like the "Hero x Mage" trope but want a more mature, humorous spin on it.

 

Heewoon has what he thinks is an innocent little obsession, following (some would call it stalking) his fellow classmate Seo Kangwoo around. Pure curiosity is all it is. Plus, Kangwoo is super popular and good-looking and this is just for fun. But when things don’t go according to plan and Heewoon gets caught red-handed, his life is about to change forever…

My Rate: 7 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/formless)

Formless, written by Taegeon and illustrated by Studio Jemi (based on the novel by Won Lead), is a psychological BL manhwa that has gained a reputation for being one of the most intense and "unhinged" entries in the yandere subgenre. The story follows Hieun, a young man who has a secret crush on the handsome and seemingly perfect Kang-woo. Hieun's affection takes a dark turn when he begins stalking Kang-woo, only to accidentally witness Kang-woo committing a brutal murder. Instead of turning Hieun in or killing him, Kang-woo begins a terrifying game of psychological manipulation, effectively turning the tables and becoming the ultimate stalker and captor. The core of Formless is the power imbalance and psychological conditioning. Kang-woo is the definition of a "black flag" male lead. He is intelligent, wealthy, and utterly ruthless. Unlike some yanderes who are portrayed with a "soft" side, Kang-woo is often described by readers as genuinely scary. He uses isolation, financial control, and physical intimidation to make Hieun entirely dependent on him. Hieun begins as a stalker himself, which adds a layer of irony to his predicament. As the story progresses, he becomes a victim of severe trauma-bonding. It leans heavily into Horror and Thriller elements rather than traditional romance. It explores the darker side of obsession where "love" is indistinguishable from ownership. The art by Studio Jemi is highly praised for its ability to convey mood. It uses a clean, modern aesthetic that contrasts sharply with the gritty and violent subject matter. The facial expressions—especially Kang-woo’s transitions from a polite mask to a predatory glare—are a highlight for fans of the genre. If you enjoyed titles like Killing Stalking or Sadistic Beauty: Side Story, Formless will likely appeal to you. It is a well-crafted psychological thriller that doesn't shy away from the "villainous" nature of its leads. However, if you are sensitive to themes of domestic abuse and extreme psychological control, this may be a difficult read.

 

"Yeo Eunseong has always been popular—too popular. With his striking looks, he attracts attention from everyone, regardless of age or gender. But constant gossip and misunderstandings have left him deeply distrustful of people. The last thing he needs is to be popular amongst ghosts too! After moving into a new home for his job, Eunseong finds himself tormented by eerie paranormal activity night after night. One evening, while cowering outside his own apartment, he meets Seo Taejeong, a passing office worker who—much to Eunseong’s surprise—can see and talk to ghosts. Desperate for peace, Eunseong enlists Taejeong’s help to rid his house of its unwelcome guests. As the two work together, an unexpected and curious friendship begins to take shape… but is there more to Taejeong than meets the eye?"

My Rate: 8 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/first_fright)

Love at First Fright is a BL manhwa that has gained a dedicated following for its unique blend of supernatural mystery and "green flag" romance. Created by Nangjun (Story) and Doojja (Art)—with Palace Kouzaki involved in the Japanese localization/adaptation—it is often praised as one of the most wholesome yet steamy entries in the genre. The story follows Yeo Eunseong, a stunningly handsome man who has spent his life being hounded by people due to his looks. This has left him deeply distrustful and isolated. His life takes a turn for the paranormal when he moves into a new apartment and realizes he is being haunted by ghosts. Desperate for help, he encounters Seo Taejeong, a calm and collected office worker who possesses the ability to see and communicate with spirits. Eunseong enlists Taejeong’s help to clear his home, leading to a partnership that quickly evolves from a "ghost-busting" business arrangement into a deep, mutual attraction. One of the most-cited reasons for the manhwa's popularity is the relationship dynamic. Unlike many BL titles that rely on toxic "push-and-pull" or obsession, the leads are remarkably respectful. Taejeong is frequently described by readers as a "giant green flag"—patient, warm, and attentive to Eunseong’s boundaries. The ghosts aren't just there for jumpscares; they add a layer of comedy and heart. Specifically, a child ghost featured in the story is a fan favorite for being incredibly adorable. Doojja’s artwork is highly polished, with many readers describing the character designs as "scrumptious." The balance between the spooky atmosphere of the hauntings and the "sizzling" chemistry during the romantic scenes is handled exceptionally well. The series leans into "fluff" and lighthearted comedy, often poking fun at the leads' oblivious nature or the absurdity of their ghostly roommates. Read it if you want a supernatural rom-com with high-tier art, a sweet relationship with clear communication, and a healthy dose of "spice" (smut) that doesn't feel forced.