Ares

Ares, written and illustrated by Ryu Keum-cheol, emerged during the early 2000s, a period when the Korean manhwa industry was aggressively expanding its international presence. Published initially in serial form, the series stands as a prominent example of epic historical fantasy, blending the grit of ancient warfare with a focus on camaraderie and personal development. The narrative centers on a group of mercenaries known as the Temple Mercenaries, following their exploits across a fictionalized, war-torn landscape that draws stylistic inspiration from classical Mediterranean antiquity.

Ryu Keum-cheol is noted for his distinct, expressive character designs and dynamic choreography during battle sequences. His approach to the series prioritized the psychological toll of prolonged conflict over simple heroics, a tonal choice that earned the work critical acclaim for its depth. By focusing on the bond between the protagonists, the series distinguished itself from typical action-oriented titles of the era, securing a dedicated readership that valued its deliberate pacing and long-form character arcs.