If You’re a Fan of The Legend of the Northern Blade: 16 Martial Arts & Revenge Manhwa to Binge Next

If you’re a fan of The Legend of the Northern Blade a martial arts manhwa celebrated for its breathtaking martial arts, dark revenge themes, and a protagonist forged in the fires of tragedy you’re likely craving more stories that blend gritty action, intricate world-building, and emotional depth. This blog dives into manhwa and webtoons that capture the same intensity, honor-bound warriors, and heart-stopping battles that make Northern Blade a masterpiece.

• “The Legend of the Northern Blade” stands out in the martial arts genre by avoiding typical elements such as cheat items, reincarnation, or prophetic insights, instead focusing on the protagonist Jin Mu-Won’s journey fueled by hard work and dedication, making it both relatable and motivating.
• Jin Mu-Won evolves from an ordinary person to a skilled martial artist through clear objectives, resilience, and a focus on self-betterment, showcasing deep character development.
• Set in a world ruled by powerful martial arts factions, the story combines an engaging narrative with stunning visuals, exploring themes of revenge, loyalty, and the consequences of choices, prompting readers to contemplate morality and its implications.

16 Best Murim Manhwa for Fans of Gritty Revenge Plots

16. Return of the Mount Hua Sect

“Return of the Mount Hua Sect” shares several similarities with “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” making it a compelling read for fans of the latter. Both manhwa are set in the Murim world, a richly detailed universe filled with martial arts, ancient traditions, and power struggles. The protagonists in both series embark on journeys of personal growth and self-discovery, driven by a desire to become stronger and overcome adversity. This shared setting and thematic focus create a familiar backdrop for readers who enjoy the intricate world-building and intense combat choreographies found in “The Legend of the Northern Blade.”

Moreover, the protagonists in both manhwa exhibit a strong determination and unwavering spirit, which is a central theme in their respective stories. In “Return of the Mount Hua Sect,” the main character’s emphasis on training and becoming stronger resonates with Jin Mu-Won’s journey in “The Legend of the Northern Blade.” Both protagonists face significant challenges and must rely on their skills and resilience to overcome them. This character-driven narrative, combined with the detailed cultivation lore and emotional depth, makes “Return of the Mount Hua Sect” a captivating read for those who enjoyed “The Legend of the Northern Blade”

15. Battle Through the Heavens

“Battle Through the Heavens” shares several similarities with “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” making it an appealing choice for fans of the latter. Both manhwa are set in richly detailed worlds filled with martial arts and powerful characters. The protagonists in each series embark on journeys of personal growth and strength, facing numerous challenges and adversaries along the way. This focus on character development and the quest for power is a common thread that runs through both narratives.

Additionally, both manhwa feature intricate and engaging combat scenes, showcasing the unique martial arts techniques and strategies employed by the characters. The detailed world-building and the exploration of ancient martial traditions add depth to the stories, making them immersive and captivating for readers. The themes of perseverance, revenge, and the pursuit of martial arts mastery are prominent in both series, further enhancing their appeal to fans of the genre.

14. Martial Peak

“Martial Peak” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” share several similarities that make them appealing to fans of martial arts and cultivation-themed manhwa. Both series are set in worlds where martial arts play a central role, with protagonists who are driven by a desire to become stronger and overcome adversity. The detailed world-building and intense combat choreographies in both manhwa contribute to their engaging narratives and immersive experiences.

One of the key similarities is the focus on the protagonist’s journey of growth and self-discovery. In “Martial Peak,” the main character starts from a position of weakness and gradually becomes one of the strongest martial artists in his world. Similarly, in “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” Jin Mu-Won, who was initially barred from learning martial arts, discovers his father’s secret techniques and embarks on a journey to master them. This theme of personal growth and the pursuit of power is a central element in both series, making them relatable and inspiring for readers. Additionally, both manhwa feature detailed and well-executed action sequences that showcase the protagonists’ skills and development, further enhancing the reading experience.

13. Legend of an Asura: The Poison Dragon:

“Legend of an Asura: The Poison Dragon” shares several similarities with “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” making it an appealing choice for fans of the latter. Both manhwa are set in the Murim world, a richly detailed universe filled with martial arts and ancient traditions. This shared setting provides a familiar backdrop for readers, immersing them in a world where strength and skill are paramount. The protagonists in both series face significant challenges and must navigate complex power dynamics within the Murim world, adding depth and intrigue to their journeys.

Moreover, the protagonist in “Legend of an Asura: The Poison Dragon” embodies a similar spirit of determination and resilience as Jin Mu-Won from “The Legend of the Northern Blade.” Unlike many other Murim manhwa protagonists, he does not possess special perks like regression or reincarnation. Instead, he relies on his innate abilities and sheer willpower to overcome obstacles and climb the ranks in the Murim world. This focus on personal growth and the pursuit of power resonates with the themes in “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” where Jin Mu-Won also faces immense hardships and must rely on his own strength and determination to achieve his goals. The slow but enjoyable pace of “Legend of an Asura: The Poison Dragon” allows readers to fully appreciate the protagonist’s journey, making it a compelling read for fans of “The Legend of the Northern Blade” .

12. Peerless Dad

“Peerless Dad” shares several similarities with “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” making it an appealing choice for fans of the latter. Both manhwa are set in the Murim world, where martial arts and ancient traditions play a central role. The protagonists in each series exhibit a strong determination to overcome adversity and become stronger, a theme that resonates deeply with readers.

The main character in “Peerless Dad,” Noh Gajang, is a former mercenary with exceptional martial arts skills who settles down to start a family. His journey mirrors that of Jin Mu-Won from “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” who also faces significant challenges and seeks to grow stronger. Both protagonists are driven by a desire to protect what they hold dear, whether it’s family or honor, and their stories are filled with intense action and character development. Additionally, both manhwa feature high-quality art that enhances the storytelling and immerses readers in the world of Murim.

11. Fist Demon of Mount Hua

“Fist Demon of Mount Hua” shares several similarities with “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” making it an appealing choice for fans of the latter. Both manhwa are set in the Murim world, a richly detailed universe filled with martial arts sects and powerful warriors. This shared setting provides a familiar backdrop for readers, with intricate world-building and a deep dive into East Asian martial arts culture. The protagonists in both series exhibit a strong thirst for power and an unwavering determination to achieve their goals, much like Jin Mu-Won from “The Legend of the Northern Blade.” This mindset and personality trait is a crucial element that resonates with readers, as it drives the narrative forward and creates engaging character development.

Additionally, “Fist Demon of Mount Hua” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” are both created by the same author, which ensures a consistent style and quality in storytelling. The author’s unique approach to martial arts themes, combined with detailed and engaging art, makes both manhwa visually stunning and captivating to read. The action sequences are meticulously crafted, and the pacing of the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, both manhwa explore themes of personal growth, power struggles, and the legacy of ancient martial traditions, adding depth to the narrative and making them stand out in the genre.

10. Descent of the Demonic Master

“The Legend of the Northern Blade” and “Descent of the Demonic Master” share several compelling similarities that make them appealing to fans of martial arts and revenge narratives.

Both manhwa center around protagonists who have experienced profound betrayal and seek revenge. In “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” Jin Mu-Won’s journey is driven by the desire to avenge his father and restore his sect’s honor after it was falsely accused and disbanded. Similarly, in “Descent of the Demonic Master,” Gang Jinho, after being betrayed and killed in his second life as the Red Demonic Master, is reborn into a modern world with memories of his past lives. This shared theme of betrayal and the quest for vengeance forms a strong emotional core in both stories, resonating with readers who enjoy narratives of redemption and justice.

Additionally, both manhwa feature powerful individuals who, despite their initial weaknesses or setbacks, grow to become formidable fighters. Jin Mu-Won and Gang Jinho both undergo significant character development, honing their martial arts skills and strategic thinking to overcome their enemies. This growth is not just physical but also mental, as they learn to navigate complex political landscapes and personal challenges. The martial arts aspect is a central theme in both manhwa, with detailed fight scenes and a focus on the protagonists’ training and mastery of various techniques. This emphasis on martial arts and personal growth creates an engaging and dynamic reading experience, appealing to fans of action-packed and character-driven stories.

6. The Return of the 8th Class Magician

Similarities Between “The Return of the 8th Class Magician” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade”

Both “The Return of the 8th Class Magician” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” share compelling narratives that revolve around protagonists who have experienced significant hardships and are driven by a desire for redemption and power. The protagonists in both manhwa are initially portrayed as weak or disadvantaged but possess hidden strengths and knowledge that set them apart. Their journeys are marked by personal growth, strategic planning, and a quest for vengeance against those who have wronged them.

The settings of both manhwa are richly detailed, with intricate world-building that immerses readers in a realm of martial arts and magic. “The Return of the 8th Class Magician” focuses on the world of magic, where the protagonist, Ian Page, is an archmage who has returned to the past to correct his mistakes and seek revenge against those who betrayed him. Similarly, “The Legend of the Northern Blade” is set in the Murim world, where martial arts and ancient traditions hold sway. The protagonist, Jin Mu-Won, seeks to avenge his father and restore his sect’s honor, much like Ian’s quest for redemption and power.

 5. Gosu

“Gosu” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” share several compelling similarities that make them appealing to fans of martial arts-themed manhwa. Both stories revolve around protagonists who are driven by a deep-seated desire for revenge, stemming from the unjust deaths of their mentors or family members. This shared theme of vengeance serves as a powerful motivator for the main characters, shaping their journeys and the challenges they face. Additionally, both manhwa are set in the murim world, a rich and complex environment filled with martial arts sects, political intrigue, and powerful fighters. This setting provides a backdrop for intense action sequences and strategic power struggles, as the protagonists navigate treacherous landscapes and formidable enemies.

Another notable similarity between “Gosu” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” is the portrayal of their protagonists as initially unassuming or underestimated figures. In “Gosu,” the main character, Gang Yong, disguises himself as a humble dumpling delivery boy to conceal his true identity and intentions. Similarly, in “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” Jin Mu-Won starts his journey without any martial arts training, making him an unlikely hero in the eyes of his adversaries. Both protagonists possess hidden strengths and unyielding determination, which they use to overcome their opponents and uncover the truth behind the betrayals that fuel their quests for justice. This character dynamic adds an element of surprise and intrigue to the narratives, keeping readers engaged as they witness the protagonists’ growth and triumphs.

4. Sword Sheath’s Child

Sword Sheath’s Child” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” share several compelling similarities that make them appealing to fans of martial arts and revenge-themed narratives. Both manhwa are set in the rich and intricate world of Murim, where martial arts sects and powerful clans vie for dominance. The protagonists in both stories embark on journeys of personal growth and revenge, driven by a desire to overcome past injustices and protect what they hold dear.

The protagonists in both manhwa start from humble beginnings, often underestimated by their peers, but possess hidden potential and unique martial arts abilities. They face numerous challenges and adversaries, growing stronger with each encounter. The themes of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of power are central to both narratives, as the protagonists strive to become the strongest in their respective worlds. Additionally, both manhwa feature intricate world-building, with detailed martial arts techniques and a rich tapestry of characters that add depth to the story. The art styles in both manhwa are notable for their dynamic action sequences and detailed character designs, which enhance the overall reading experience.

3. Volcanic Age

“Volcanic Age” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” share several compelling similarities that make them appealing to fans of martial arts and revenge narratives. Both manhwa are set in intricate worlds where martial arts play a central role, featuring detailed combat choreography and a rich tapestry of ancient traditions. The protagonists in each story embark on journeys of personal growth and power struggles, driven by a desire to overcome past regrets and correct mistakes. This theme of redemption is a powerful narrative force, as the main characters must navigate treacherous political landscapes and confront formidable enemies to achieve their goals.

Another striking similarity lies in the protagonists’ initial positions of weakness or disadvantage. In “Volcanic Age,” Joo Seo-Cheon is given a second chance at life, using his past experiences to guide his actions and avoid previous missteps. Similarly, Jin Mu-Won in “The Legend of the Northern Blade” starts as an untrained warrior, seeking to honor his father’s legacy and avenge the destruction of his sect. Both protagonists exhibit unwavering determination and a thirst for power, utilizing their knowledge and skills to rise above their circumstances. This character development, coupled with the engaging storylines and captivating art styles, makes both manhwa standouts in the genre.

2. Chronicles of Heavenly Demon

“Chronicles of Heavenly Demon” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” share several compelling similarities that make them appealing to fans of martial arts and revenge narratives.

Both manhwa are set in a world where martial arts reign supreme, with a strong focus on the murim genre. This setting provides a rich backdrop for intricate combat scenes and detailed world-building, immersing readers in a universe where strength and skill are paramount. The protagonists in both series are driven by a desire for revenge, seeking to right the wrongs done to their loved ones or their sects. This shared theme of vengeance creates a tense and engaging narrative, as the main characters navigate treacherous paths to achieve their goals.

Moreover, both manhwa feature protagonists who start from humble beginnings but possess hidden potential and knowledge that sets them apart. In “Chronicles of Heavenly Demon,” the main character, Hyuk Woon Sung, is reborn as a child and trains to become an elite soldier of the Heavenly Demon Divine Cult, embracing the demonic arts to seek revenge for his master’s death. Similarly, in “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” Jin Mu-Won, the son of the disbanded Northern Heavenly Sect’s leader, discovers his father’s hidden techniques and embarks on a journey to avenge his family and restore his sect’s honor. Both protagonists exhibit remarkable growth and development throughout their respective series, overcoming numerous challenges and adversaries to become formidable warriors.

1. Poison Dragon: The Legend of an Asura

“Poison Dragon: The Legend of an Asura” and “The Legend of the Northern Blade” share several compelling similarities that make them appealing to fans of martial arts and revenge narratives.

Both manhwa center around protagonists who have endured significant hardships and are driven by a desire for vengeance. In “Poison Dragon,” Zhen Ziqiang, the sole survivor of the Medicine Faction, is subjected to brutal experiments by the Venom Clan, which grants him immunity to poisons and transforms him into an Asura. His journey mirrors that of Jin Mu-Won from “The Legend of the Northern Blade,” who seeks to avenge his father and the Northern Heavenly Sect, which was falsely accused and disbanded. Both protagonists start from a position of weakness and grow stronger as they navigate their respective worlds, honing their martial arts skills and strategic prowess.

The themes of revenge and personal growth are prominent in both series. The protagonists’ calm demeanors outside of combat belie their fierce determination and strategic minds. They both face formidable enemies and must overcome not only physical challenges but also political and emotional obstacles. The antagonists in both stories operate from the shadows, manipulating events to maintain their power and influence, adding layers of complexity to the narratives. These similarities make both manhwa engaging for readers who enjoy intricate plots, character development, and high-stakes action.