Manhwa, the South Korean equivalent to manga, has been gaining popularity globally. One of the most fascinating manhwas in the market is “The Beginning of the End.” Written and illustrated by Park Do-Hwan, “The Beginning of the End” is a dark fantasy story set in a post-apocalyptic world. This manhwa has captivated many readers with its unique storyline, well-developed characters, and stunning artwork. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into “The Beginning of the End” and everything you need to know about this manhwa.
The Plot
The story takes place in a world devastated by a virus that turns humans into monsters called “Screamers.” The survivors live in an isolated city called the Last Ark, which is protected by a massive wall that keeps the Screamers out. The city is controlled by the Council, an organization that makes all the decisions for the city’s residents. The story follows a young man named Rostam, who is on a quest to find his missing brother.
Rostam comes from a family of hunters who are tasked with patrolling the wall and protecting the city from the Screamers. When his brother goes missing during a hunting expedition, Rostam sets out to find him. Along the way, he meets a girl named Aria, who has a mysterious connection to the virus that created the Screamers. Together, they embark on a dangerous journey, uncovering secrets that threaten to upend the fragile balance of the Last Ark.
The plot of “The Beginning of the End” is engaging and well-executed. The story moves at a brisk pace, with enough action and suspense to keep readers hooked. The world-building is also impressive, with the manhwa offering a glimpse into a bleak and desolate world that is both terrifying and fascinating.
The Characters
The characters in “The Beginning of the End” are well-developed and multidimensional. Rostam, the protagonist, is a complex character who is torn between his loyalty to his family and his desire to do what is right. He is a skilled hunter who is determined to find his brother, even if it means going against the Council’s orders.
Aria, the female lead, is a mysterious and enigmatic character who has a deep connection to the virus that created the Screamers. She has a tragic past and is haunted by her memories, but she is also strong-willed and determined to uncover the truth about the virus.
The supporting characters are also well-written and add depth to the story. They all have their own motivations and agendas, which makes for an interesting and complex dynamic.
The Artwork
The artwork in “The Beginning of the End” is stunning. Park Do-Hwan’s style is detailed and dynamic, with each panel conveying a sense of movement and action. The character designs are also impressive, with each character having a distinct look and personality. The Screamers, in particular, are terrifying and grotesque, adding to the manhwa’s overall sense of dread and terror.
The Themes
“The Beginning of the End” deals with several themes, including survival, loyalty, and betrayal. The manhwa also explores the idea of power and control, with the Council’s rule over the Last Ark serving as a commentary on authoritarianism. The virus that created the Screamers is also a metaphor for the dangers of unchecked scientific experimentation, adding a layer of social commentary to the story.
The Reception
“The Beginning of the End” has received critical acclaim since its debut in 2019. It has been praised for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and stunning artwork. Fans have also lauded the manhwa for its unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre.
The manhwa has also gained a following on social media, with fans eagerly anticipating each new chapter. It has been recommended to fans of other dark fantasy series, such as “Attack on Titan” and “Tokyo Ghoul.”
The Future
As of writing, “The Beginning of the End” is still ongoing, with new chapters released every week. The manhwa has yet to be adapted into an anime or live-action series, but fans are hopeful that it will happen in the future.
Conclusion
“The Beginning of the End” is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and post-apocalyptic stories. It offers a unique and well-executed take on the genre, with engaging characters, stunning artwork, and a suspenseful plot. Whether you’re a fan of manhwa or just looking for a new series to dive into, “The Beginning of the End” is definitely worth checking out.