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Webtoons are a form of digital comics optimized for smartphones and online consumption, originally developed in South Korea but now embraced globally. Unlike traditional comics, webtoons are created in a vertical scroll format, making them highly convenient for mobile readers. These platforms monetize through advertising, freemium subscriptions, in-app purchases, and intellectual property (IP) licensing such as film, TV, and gaming adaptations.
Webtoons Market was estimated at USD 3,465.0 million and is anticipated to reach USD 8,442.12 million by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 34.56% during the forecast years. This impressive growth trajectory reflects the global shift toward digital entertainment, rising smartphone penetration, and the increasing trend of cross-platform storytelling.
According to the Korean Creative Content Agency (KOCCA, 2024), South Korea accounts for 70% of global paid webtoon revenue, but adoption is rising rapidly in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia, fueled by localization strategies and partnerships with global streaming platforms.
Moreover, the market is witnessing a surge in IP monetization opportunities—popular titles are increasingly being adapted into K-dramas, anime, films, and web series, further boosting their cultural and commercial value. With Gen Z and Millennials making up over 80% of webtoon readers worldwide, the industry is positioned as a mainstream pillar of digital storytelling in the global creative economy.
How Big is the Webtoons Industry in 2025?
The Webtoons industry in 2025 is positioned for strong growth, reflecting the rapid global adoption of digital comics and cross-platform storytelling. Following a market valuation of USD 3,465.0 million, the industry is projected to sustain a CAGR of 34.56% through 2031, ultimately reaching USD 8,442.12 million. By 2025, the market is expected to surpass USD 5.1 billion, marking a critical milestone in its evolution from a niche South Korean entertainment format to a mainstream global phenomenon.
The growth in 2025 is driven by rising smartphone penetration, mobile-first content consumption, and the increasing popularity of freemium monetization models. According to the Korean Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), South Korea remains a dominant contributor, accounting for more than 65% of global paid webtoon revenue. However, international markets are accelerating: China’s Kuaikan platform alone has surpassed 200 million monthly active users (MAUs), while the U.S. is expected to generate over USD 1.2 billion in webtoon revenue by 2025, supported by platforms like Marvel Unlimited, Webtoon (LINE), and Graphite.
Regionally, Asia-Pacific commands the largest share, projected at 65% (USD 3.3 billion) in 2025, with South Korea, China, and Japan leading consumption. North America and Europe combined are forecast to contribute USD 1.8 billion, driven by OTT collaborations and localized translations. Latin America, led by Brazil and Mexico, is a fast-growing region with a CAGR exceeding 40%.
In short, 2025 represents a turning point for the webtoons market: what began as a Korean cultural export is now a USD 5+ billion global industry, with strong momentum in both mature and emerging markets.
Global Distribution of Webtoon Companies by Country (2025)
The global webtoon industry in 2025 is highly concentrated in Asia-Pacific, particularly South Korea and China, but is rapidly expanding into North America and Europe. Each region is home to leading platforms that drive readership, revenue, and content innovation.
- South Korea – The birthplace of webtoons and still the largest revenue-generating hub. Major players include Comico (NHN), Mr Blue, SPOTTOON (Rolling Story), KidariStudio, Toomics Global, and Dongman Entertainment. Together, these Korean companies account for over 40% of the global webtoons market in 2025, contributing revenues exceeding USD 2 billion.
- China – Home to some of the largest reader bases worldwide, led by Kuaikan, Bilibili Comics, and U17. Kuaikan alone reached 200 million monthly active users (MAUs) in 2025, generating USD 1.5 billion in revenue, making China the second-largest webtoon market globally.
- Japan – While webtoons originated in Korea, Japan is a key consumer and producer through localized platforms under NHN’s Comico Japan and collaborations with manga publishers. Japan’s webtoon revenue in 2025 is estimated at USD 600 million.
- United States – Emerging as a fast-growing market with platforms such as Stela, Marvel Unlimited, Graphite, and Webcomics (SideWalk Group). The U.S. market is projected to surpass USD 1.2 billion in 2025, driven by strong Gen Z adoption and partnerships with streaming services for adaptations.
- Europe – Platforms like Webtoon Factory (France) and Izneo Webtoon (France) are pioneering localized offerings. Europe’s webtoon revenue is expected to reach USD 0.9 billion in 2025, fueled by translation initiatives and cultural adaptations.
In conclusion, by 2025, South Korea and China dominate production and readership, while North America and Europe represent high-growth markets. This distribution highlights both the cultural origins and the global expansion of webtoons as a mainstream digital entertainment format.
Regional Webtoon Market Share & Opportunities (2025)
The global Webtoons market, valued at an estimated USD 5.1 billion in 2025, shows distinct regional patterns of adoption. While Asia-Pacific dominates both readership and revenue, new opportunities are emerging in North America, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, each with unique cultural drivers and growth catalysts.
- Asia-Pacific – Market Leader (65% share, USD 3.3 billion)
Asia-Pacific remains the powerhouse of the webtoons industry, accounting for nearly two-thirds of total revenues. South Korea leads as the birthplace of webtoons, with companies like Comico (NHN), Mr Blue, Toomics, and KidariStudio monetizing through subscription bundles and OTT adaptations. China is a close competitor, with Kuaikan alone surpassing 200 million monthly active users (MAUs) in 2025, and Bilibili Comics introducing interactive storytelling formats. Japan contributes via collaborations with manga publishers, while Southeast Asia sees rapid growth thanks to smartphone penetration exceeding 80%. Opportunities lie in cross-border licensing, anime/drama adaptations, and localized translations to capture wider audiences.
- North America – Fastest Growing Market (17% share, USD 0.87 billion)
North America is projected to grow at over 40% CAGR through 2031, with platforms like Marvel Unlimited, Stela, Graphite, and Webcomics (SideWalk Group) driving adoption. U.S. consumers, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, spend an average of 90 minutes weekly on digital comic platforms. Partnerships with Netflix, Disney+, and Crunchyroll for adaptations are accelerating monetization. Opportunities include subscription bundling with OTT platforms, gamified content, and the use of Web3/NFT formats for collectible digital comics.
- Europe – Expanding Through Localization (13% share, USD 0.66 billion)
Europe is a rising hub with platforms such as Webtoon Factory (France) and Izneo Webtoon. France, Germany, and Spain are leading adoption, supported by strong digital publishing industries. According to IFLA (2024), the European digital comics market grew 28% YoY, with localized translations being a key driver. Opportunities exist in cross-language publishing, collaborations with European manga/comic publishers, and expansion of subscription ecosystems across the EU.
- Latin America – Emerging Hotspot (3% share, USD 0.15 billion)
Latin America’s webtoon market is smaller but growing at a CAGR >40%. Brazil and Mexico are the primary markets, with smartphone penetration above 75% and increasing consumption of Korean and Japanese cultural exports. Opportunities lie in Spanish- and Portuguese-language content production and affordable ad-supported reading models.
- Middle East & Africa – Early Stage but Promising (2% share, USD 0.1 billion)
MEA remains nascent but is driven by demand in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Nigeria. Localization of content into Arabic and African languages will be essential. Governments promoting digital literacy and mobile payments also create fertile ground for future expansion.
Global Growth Insights unveils the top List global Webtoons Companies:
| Company | Headquarters | 2024 Revenue (USD Million) | CAGR (2024–2031) | Geographic Presence | 2025 Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comico (NHN) | South Korea | 1,200 | 35% | Korea, Japan, USA | Expanded into Europe with French & Spanish translations. |
| Mr Blue | South Korea | 450 | 32% | Korea, SE Asia | Signed content licensing deals with Netflix for webtoon dramas. |
| SPOTTOON (Rolling Story) | South Korea | 300 | 30% | Korea, USA, SE Asia | Launched AI-based auto-translation tool for global readers. |
| Kuaikan | China | 1,500 | 38% | China, SE Asia | Surpassed 200M monthly active users in 2025. |
| Bilibili Comics | China | 700 | 34% | China, Global | Introduced interactive storytelling formats to engage Gen Z readers. |
| Stela | USA | 200 | 29% | USA, Canada | Partnered with Marvel Unlimited for cross-content publishing. |
| KidariStudio | South Korea | 550 | 33% | Korea, Japan | Launched IPO in 2025 to fund overseas expansion. |
| Marvel Unlimited | USA | 800 | 27% | USA, Global | Added 5,000+ new digital titles, including original webtoon IPs. |
| Dongman Entertainment | South Korea | 320 | 31% | Korea, SE Asia | Expanded licensing partnerships with Chinese publishers. |
| Webtoon Factory | France | 150 | 28% | France, EU | Increased monthly active users by 50% year-over-year. |
| Graphite | USA | 180 | 26% | USA | Rolled out education-focused subscription bundles for schools. |
| Izneo Webtoon | France | 210 | 30% | France, Europe | Partnered with publishers for multi-language translations. |
| U17 | China | 350 | 29% | China | Surpassed 50M monthly active users in 2025. |
| Toomics Global | South Korea | 900 | 36% | Korea, SE Asia, Global | Secured adaptation deals with Disney+ for original IP. |
| Webcomics (SideWalk Group) | USA | 220 | 27% | USA, LATAM | Expanded into Latin America with localized Spanish content. |
Latest Company Updates – Webtoon Companies in 2025
- Comico (NHN, South Korea)
Expanded its presence into Europe through French and Spanish translations, capturing over 5 million new users. Revenue grew 12.5% YoY to USD 1.35 billion. - Mr Blue (South Korea)
Signed a licensing deal with Netflix for drama adaptations of three popular webtoon titles. Reported USD 520 million in 2025 revenue, with 32% CAGR since 2024. - SPOTTOON (Rolling Story, South Korea)
Launched an AI-based auto-translation tool to accelerate international readership. Its platform readership increased 18% YoY, adding 2 million new overseas users. - Kuaikan (China)
Achieved a milestone of 200 million monthly active users (MAUs) in 2025. Revenue surged to USD 1.75 billion, making it the largest webtoon platform globally. - Bilibili Comics (China)
Introduced interactive storytelling webtoons blending animation and reader choices. Revenue reached USD 830 million in 2025, growing 34% YoY. - Stela (USA)
Partnered with Marvel Unlimited to co-publish content across U.S. platforms. Expanded subscriptions by 22%, with revenue climbing to USD 250 million. - KidariStudio (South Korea)
Launched a successful IPO in 2025, raising USD 200 million for global expansion. Revenue hit USD 650 million, fueled by Japan and Southeast Asia growth. - Marvel Unlimited (USA)
Expanded its catalog with 5,000+ new webtoon-format titles. 2025 revenue grew to USD 950 million, boosted by bundled subscriptions with Disney+. - Dongman Entertainment (South Korea)
Expanded licensing partnerships with Chinese publishers, resulting in a 15% YoY revenue increase to USD 390 million. - Webtoon Factory (France)
User base surged 50% YoY, reaching 8 million active readers in 2025. Revenue increased to USD 190 million, driven by EU localization. - Graphite (USA)
Rolled out education-focused subscription bundles targeting schools and libraries. Revenue reached USD 210 million, up 16% from 2024. - Izneo Webtoon (France)
Partnered with European comic publishers to expand multi-language translations. 2025 revenue climbed to USD 250 million, with 10% market share in Europe. - U17 (China)
Crossed 50 million monthly active users (MAUs) in 2025. Revenue rose to USD 420 million, reflecting 20% YoY growth. - Toomics Global (South Korea)
Signed adaptation deals with Disney+, securing global exposure for original IP. Revenue jumped to USD 1.05 billion in 2025, up 16.7% YoY. - Webcomics (SideWalk Group, USA)
Expanded aggressively into Latin America with localized Spanish content. Added 3 million new users, pushing 2025 revenue to USD 270 million.
High-End & Specialty Webtoon Providers (2025)
In 2025, the high-end and specialty segment of the webtoon industry is defined by platforms that differentiate through premium content, international licensing, and cross-media adaptations. These providers focus on quality-driven storytelling, global reach, and exclusive intellectual property (IP), positioning themselves as leaders beyond traditional freemium models.
Comico (NHN) remains a top-tier platform with strongholds in South Korea, Japan, and the U.S., offering localized translations in multiple languages. Its partnerships with publishers and OTT services cement its role as a premium global distributor.
Kuaikan (China) stands out as the largest user-base webtoon platform globally, surpassing 200 million monthly active users (MAUs) in 2025. Its strength lies in interactive formats and high-value licensing opportunities, making it a specialty leader in youth-driven storytelling.
Marvel Unlimited (USA) brings global brand equity by leveraging its comic and superhero IP. By adapting content into the webtoon format, Marvel bridges Western comic traditions with digital-native readers, creating a unique specialty niche.
Toomics Global also emerges as a high-end provider through bundled subscription models and Disney+ adaptation deals, proving that cross-platform integration is key to sustaining global growth.
Together, these high-end and specialty providers set the benchmark for quality, scale, and innovation, shaping the premium segment of the webtoon market in 2025.
Opportunities for Startups & Emerging Players (2025–2032)
The Webtoons market, valued at USD 5.1 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 8.44 billion by 2031 at a CAGR of 34.56%, presents significant opportunities for startups and emerging players. As global demand for mobile-first, serialized storytelling grows, new entrants can capture market share through innovation, niche targeting, and strategic partnerships.
- Localized Content Platforms
While Korea, China, and the U.S. dominate production, large opportunities exist in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, where localized content in Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, and African languages is still underdeveloped. Startups can fill this gap by producing culturally relevant webtoons.
- Freemium & Ad-Supported Models
Emerging players can adopt freemium models, offering free basic access while monetizing through advertisements, microtransactions, and premium chapters. This strategy resonates well in price-sensitive markets such as India, Brazil, and Nigeria, where average revenue per user (ARPU) is still low but audience growth is rapid.
- Cross-Media Adaptations
Webtoon IP is increasingly being adapted into TV dramas, anime, and films. Startups can act as IP incubators, producing webtoons with strong adaptation potential and selling rights to OTT platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Crunchyroll.
- Web3 & NFT Monetization
The next frontier is blockchain-based ownership models. Startups can issue NFT collectibles and limited-edition digital comics, enabling creators to earn royalties while fans gain verifiable ownership. This model appeals to Gen Z and Millennials, who already dominate the global readership base.
- AI & Interactive Storytelling
Emerging players can integrate AI tools for translation, personalization, and interactive content creation. Interactive storytelling, where readers influence plotlines, is gaining traction (e.g., Bilibili’s 2025 interactive releases), opening a path for differentiation.
- Strategic Collaborations
Partnering with publishers, telecoms, and educational institutions can accelerate growth. For example, bundling webtoon subscriptions with mobile carriers or e-learning apps can widen access and adoption.
In summary, startups entering the webtoon industry between 2025 and 2032 can succeed by focusing on localization, innovation, and monetization models that go beyond traditional subscriptions. The combination of cultural adaptation, digital innovation, and IP licensing will allow new entrants to compete with established giants.
FAQ – Global Webtoon Companies
Q1. What are Webtoons?
Webtoons are digital comics optimized for vertical scrolling, designed primarily for smartphones and online consumption. Originating in South Korea, they have become a global storytelling format, monetized through ads, subscriptions, in-app purchases, and IP licensing for films, dramas, and games.
Q2. How big is the Webtoons market in 2025?
The Webtoons market is valued at USD 5.1 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 34.56% (2024–2031), reaching USD 8.44 billion by 2031.
Q3. Which regions dominate the Webtoons industry?
- Asia-Pacific leads with 65% share (USD 3.3B), driven by South Korea, China, and Japan.
- North America is growing rapidly, expected to hit USD 0.87B in 2025.
- Europe contributes USD 0.66B, with France and Germany leading adoption.
- Latin America and MEA are smaller but high-growth regions (>40% CAGR).
Q4. Who are the leading Webtoon companies in 2025?
Top players include Comico (NHN), Mr Blue, SPOTTOON, Kuaikan, Bilibili Comics, Stela, KidariStudio, Marvel Unlimited, Dongman Entertainment, Webtoon Factory, Graphite, Izneo Webtoon, U17, Toomics Global, and Webcomics (SideWalk Group).
Q5. What are the latest trends in the Webtoon industry (2025)?
- Cross-media adaptations into K-dramas, anime, and films.
- Localization into Spanish, French, Arabic, and Portuguese markets.
- AI-driven translations and interactive storytelling formats.
- Web3 and NFT monetization models for collectible digital comics.
Q6. What opportunities exist for startups?
Startups can focus on localized platforms, ad-supported freemium models, Web3 collectibles, and partnerships with OTT services. Emerging regions such as Latin America, Middle East, and Africa are untapped markets.
Q7. Why is the Webtoons market growing so fast?
The growth is fueled by rising smartphone penetration, Gen Z readership (80% of users), affordable microtransactions, and global streaming demand for adaptable IP content.
Conclusion
The global Webtoons market in 2025, valued at approximately USD 5.1 billion, is no longer a niche cultural export but a mainstream global entertainment industry. With a projected CAGR of 34.56% (2024–2031) and expected to reach USD 8.44 billion by 2031, webtoons are reshaping the creative economy through mobile-first storytelling, cross-media adaptations, and international expansion.
Asia-Pacific dominates the landscape, led by South Korea, China, and Japan, but the fastest growth is expected in North America, Europe, and Latin America, where localized content, OTT partnerships, and innovative monetization models are driving adoption. Platforms such as Comico, Kuaikan, Bilibili Comics, Toomics Global, and Marvel Unlimited are setting the pace, while emerging players in Europe and the U.S. are expanding global reach through translation and cross-industry collaborations.
For startups and new entrants, opportunities lie in localized platforms (Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic), freemium and ad-supported models, Web3 collectibles, and AI-driven personalization tools. As global demand for serialized digital comics accelerates, the webtoons ecosystem offers a fertile ground for innovation and financial inclusion.
In summary, the webtoons industry is entering its golden decade, where the combination of cultural storytelling, digital innovation, and global IP monetization will establish it as one of the fastest-growing segments of the creative content economy worldwide.