The Breaker (manhwa)
The Breaker is a South Korean manhwa series written by Jeon Geuk-jin and illustrated by Park Jin-hwan. It follows the story of Yi Shioon, a bullied high school student who becomes the disciple of Goomoonryong, a powerful martial artist and former leader of the Murim world, who is disguised as his substitute teacher, Chunwoo Han.
The manhwa is set in a world where martial arts societies (Murim) secretly exist alongside modern society. Goomoonryong is hunted by both the Murim Alliance and the Black Heaven and Earth Clan, which creates conflict as he attempts to protect Yi Shioon and guide him on his path.
The Breaker explores themes of martial arts, loyalty, betrayal, corruption, and personal growth. The series is known for its dynamic action sequences, well-developed characters, and intricate plot.
The series is divided into three parts:
- The Breaker: The first part introduces Yi Shioon, Chunwoo Han, and the basic elements of the Murim world.
- The Breaker: New Waves: The second part follows Yi Shioon's training and his growing involvement in the Murim world after Chunwoo's disappearance.
- The Breaker: Eternal Force: The third part continues the story, focusing on Yi Shioon's evolution as a martial artist and the larger conflicts within the Murim.
The manhwa has gained considerable popularity both in South Korea and internationally and is often cited as one of the most well-regarded martial arts manhwa series.