Have you ever stumbled upon an incredible animated series, only to realize it’s not what you thought it was? That’s right, not every anime-style show actually originates from Japan! Today, I’m going to reveal 10 phenomenal series that you might have mistaken for anime. But here’s the twist - they’re not! After binging through countless hours of animated adventures from Korea, China, and even America, I’ve handpicked these gems just for you. Trust me, the effort was real, and the discoveries were absolutely mind-blowing!
For those who want a video 😉
Korean Picks:
First lets get into the Korean animated series. Most of which started from Manhwa which are like Korean comics equivalent to Japan and mangas.
- Solo Leveling
- Synopsis: Sung Jinwoo, the world’s weakest hunter, gains a unique leveling system after a near-death experience. Watch his journey from underdog to powerhouse.
- Genre: magic dystopia
- Thoughts: Super popular right now; a must-watch! I love that this one is getting popular because a lot of manhwas are seen as just romances so I’m glad we are getting some action and other genres.
- Doctor Elise
- Synopsis: This recent release follows a character who is given a second chance at life, opening doors to countless possibilities
- Genre: Isekai n shoujo
- Thoughts: Full of potential; check my ‘New Anime Releases 2024’ video for more.
- Lookism
- Synopsis: In a world where looks reign supreme, an outcast high schooler leads a double life in two bodies - one unattractive and one irresistibly handsome. This series explores the societal impacts of appearance in a captivating way.
- Genre: bully and body swap
- Thoughts: This series is a great take on appearance and identity.
- Noblesse
- Synopsis: After 820 years of slumber, Rai, a noble vampire, awakens in a modern world filled with new technology and lifestyles. His quest to adapt leads to both comical and dangerous situations.
- Genre: vampire and school
- Thoughts: Loved this one; the first animated manhwa I discovered. To this day its still my favorite animated manhwa.
- Bagel Girl
- Synopsis: An unemployed man wakes up as a woman, resembling those he admired online. This leads to a whirlwind of comedic and transformative events.
- Genre: revenge and bullying
- Thoughts: Entertaining and full of surprises.
Chinese Standouts
Not too surprising that most of these animated series originated from Manhuas which are Chinese comics (sounds similar to Manhwa but spelled differently):
- The Daily Life of the Immortal King
- Synopsis: A powerful high schooler with a world-threatening secret. A must watch if you like op characters.
- Thoughts: Enjoyable series; Season 4 is on my list just waiting for me to finish it.
- Link Click
- Synopsis: A unique duo uses their special abilities to enter photos and relive moments, leading to unexpected discoveries and consequences.
- Genre: time manipulation and tragedies
- Thoughts: Absolutely love this one; Season 1 & 2 was fantastic. I can’t wait for a third season.
- Heaven Official’s Blessing
- Synopsis: Xie Lian ascends to Heaven only to face new challenges and adventures, balancing between the human and spiritual realms.
- Genre: BL gods and ghost
- Thoughts: I heard great things about this series. It’s high on my watchlist. I’ve read another comic from this author and loved it so I can’t wait to dive into this one.
- The Last Summoner
- Synopsis: A young cook’s encounter with a hungry girl from another world turns his life upside down, as he becomes a summoner by accident.
- Genre: magic and super powers
- Thoughts: Intriguing premise. This is definitely on my watchlist and I didn’t realize it was not technically anime.
American Animated:
- Castlevania
- Synopsis: Dracula’s quest for vengeance against humanity unleashes a demonic army. Trevor Belmont, Sypha Belnades, and Alucard unite to stop the chaos.
- Genre: vampires and demons
- Thoughts: A masterpiece blending horror and action. Not your typical anime, but a must-watch!
And there you have it – a world tour of animation that challenges the boundaries of what we typically consider anime. So, did any of these ’not-really-anime’ series catch your eye? 🤔 It’s amazing how animation can transcend geographical boundaries and still captivate us, no matter where it’s from! 🌐✨