Villains Are Destined to Die is not just another romantic fantasy webtoon—it’s a wild emotional ride packed with heartbreak, suspense, clever twists, and a compelling look at what happens when you’re the “bad guy” in someone else’s story. Whether you’re exploring this world for the first time or you’re a passionate fan, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this breakout series: its origins, story, characters, why it resonates with so many, and how you can dive in yourself.
What Is “Villains Are Destined to Die”?
Villains Are Destined to Die (Korean: 악녀는 마리오네트, aka Death Is the Only Ending for the Villainess) is a Korean web novel, later adapted into a popular manhwa (Korean comic) and webtoon series. The story was written by Gwon Gyeoeul, with beautiful illustrations by Suol. Since its debut, it has captivated audiences across the globe with its unique premise and masterful storytelling. The official English title on most webtoon platforms is Villains Are Destined to Die.
The Premise
At its core, the story is about Penelope Eckhart, the villainess in a “dating sim” game called ‘Daughter of the Duke Love Project.’ In our world, a college-age girl is obsessed with this game—but she always notices that Penelope, the villain, seems cursed to die no matter how the player plays.
One night, the girl wakes up to find herself trapped inside the game as none other than Penelope herself, right at the start of Penelope’s doomed story. Every little choice she makes affects which “route” she ends up on—and every route seems to lead to death or misery for Penelope. Now, she must use her knowledge of the game and her wits to try to survive in a world where everyone expects her to be evil, all while facing down deadly romance, political intrigue, and betrayal at every turn.
Where to Read It
You can read Villains Are Destined to Die on official webtoon and manhwa platforms like:
- Tappytoon (official English translations)
- Tapas
- Webnovel (for the light novel)
- Some volumes are also available in print in select bookstores
Why Has “Villains Are Destined to Die” Become So Popular?
1. A Unique Twist On the “Villainess” and Otome Isekai Genre
The “villainess” genre exploded after My Next Life as a Villainess and similar series, but Villains Are Destined to Die arguably does it best. Instead of simply making the villainess likable or misunderstood, this series puts the heroine in a no-win scenario: every love interest wants her dead or ruined, her family hates her, and the world is actively designed to doom her. There’s a genuine sense of stakes, anxiety, and suspense that makes you care deeply about each choice she makes.
2. Complex Characters and Evolving Relationships
Unlike typical romance webtoons, where love interests quickly warm to the main character, here every relationship is a tightrope. The “heroine” Penelope (technically the original FL’s mind inside Penelope’s body) must navigate terrifying, dangerous, often abusive men, not as lovesick crushes but as potential executioners. Each male lead—her cold father, the sadistic prince, the dangerous brothers—could kill her at a moment’s notice. Watching her slowly earn trust (and struggle with trust issues herself) forces the story to unfold in tense, realistic ways.
3. Stunning Artwork and Immersive Worldbuilding
The manhwa’s art, by Suol, is praised for its lush detail, expressive characters, and dramatic page layouts. The fantasy setting, with its grand ballrooms, imposing castles, and richly dressed nobles, draws you in. But what really pops is how the artwork shifts to enhance Penelope’s fear, despair, and hope.
4. Game Mechanics in Storytelling
The “choice system” of the dating sim isn’t just a gimmick. The story regularly shows the choices Penelope faces—something as simple as whether to apologize or stay quiet could mean life or death. The visual markers of “affection points” or “kill points” from love interests add constant suspense, and readers are left second-guessing every route.
5. Emotional Depth and Mental Health Themes
The series doesn’t pull its punches. Penelope’s life is one of hardship, fear, and distrust; her struggle to survive feels raw and, at times, heartbreaking. The trauma, anxiety, and loneliness are handled with nuance, making her victories feel earned and her losses deeply impactful. It’s more than a romance—at many points, it’s a survival drama.
Major Characters: Who’s Who in “Villains Are Destined to Die”
Penelope Eckhart
- The Villainess/MC: Once the “evil” stepdaughter, now inhabited by a modern girl doing everything to survive. Penelope starts as a punching bag for the world, but over time, her wit, empathy, and determination shine. She is smart, cautious, and never certain who to trust.
Callisto Regulus
- The Crown Prince: Handsome, brilliant, but cold and deeply dangerous. He’s the most “fated” love interest—deadly and unpredictable, but also the first to show complexity beyond cruelty.
Derrick Eckhart
- The Older Brother: Distant, judgmental, and wrapped in old wounds. His coldness hides past trauma—and Penelope must work hard to lower his guard.
Renald Eckhart
- The Younger Brother: At first, Renald is energetic but equally dangerous if Penelope makes the wrong choice. His shifting loyalty highlights the “walk-on-eggshells” tension the story is known for.
Winter Verdandi
- The Knight: Loyal, stoic, but vulnerable. He represents hope for protection—but also harbors his own pain.
Eclise
- The Slave-turned-Noble Candidate: Eclise has a complicated, deeply tragic storyline. His affection, when mishandled, leads to one of the most infamous and harrowing “bad ends” in the series.
The Duke (Duke Eckhart)
- Penelope’s Father: One of the world’s harshest figures, he is cold, suspicious, and full of prejudice. Penelope’s race for affection points with him shows the emotional depth and challenge of repairing a broken parent-child bond.
What Sets “Villains Are Destined to Die” Apart?
High Stakes, Real Tension
Unlike other series where the “villainess” is merely misunderstood, Penelope is in constant danger. Every choice feels meaningful, and the “bad ends” are genuinely terrifying. Readers often say they’re on the edge of their seat, rooting desperately for the MC even when the situation seems hopeless.
No Easy Redemption
There’s no “one magical moment” that turns everything around. Penelope must work for every point of trust or affection, and sometimes her best efforts still end in betrayal or heartbreak. This sense of realism and unpredictability is rare in the genre.
Exploration of Power, Abuse, and Recovery
Many webtoons skim over the real trauma of abuse or toxic families, but Villains Are Destined to Die dives headfirst. Penelope’s life is shaped by what others have done to her, but her survival story is inspiring—a message about endurance, resilience, and ultimately self-worth.
Themes and Analysis: Why It Resonates
1. Survival Over Romance
Though technically a romance story, Villains Are Destined to Die is about choosing to survive and heal before seeking love. Penelope’s top priority is staying alive—not winning over a prince.
2. Agency & Choice
The game mechanic isn’t just plot—it’s symbolic. Penelope’s struggle to break free from “scripted” choices mirrors real-life battles against society’s expectations or toxic relationships.
3. Gray Morality
Penelope and the other leads aren’t simply good or evil. The story explores complicated motives, forgiveness, and the slow process of earning and offering redemption.
4. Commentary on Otome Games
The series is a meta-satire of otome and dating sim tropes, poking fun at the absurdity (and dangers) of affection-point systems and pre-set storylines.
Top Villainess/Isekai Recommendations for Fans
Love Villains Are Destined to Die? You might also enjoy:
- The Villainess Reverses the Hourglass
- The Remarried Empress
- Your Throne
- Beware the Villainess!
- My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom!
- Who Made Me a Princess?
Each features complex heroines, rich fantasy worlds, and subversive romance or power stories.
Where to Find “Villains Are Destined to Die”
- Official English Chapters: Tappytoon and Tapas offer translated releases, supporting the creators.
- Print Editions: Some publishers are bringing the manhwa to print for fans to collect.
- Web Novel: For those who prefer reading, the web novel is available on sites like Webnovel.
- Discussion Groups: Join Reddit, Discord, or fan forums for animated discussions, theory-crafting, and artwork.
Always use legal channels to support your favorite creators and artists!
Fan Reactions: Why Do Readers Get Addicted?
- “Every episode has me second-guessing what’s right for Penelope!”
- “The art is drop-dead gorgeous. I love how they capture Penelope’s emotions.”
- “I never cared about ‘villainess’ manhwa before, but this one is deep, dark, and brilliant.”
- “Stakes are SO high. When Penelope makes a choice, my heart pounds.”
This feedback highlights what makes the series unforgettable—genuine suspense, emotional payoff, and a lead you can’t help but root for.
FAQs: Your “Villains Are Destined to Die” Questions Answered
Q: Is the story complete?
A: The original web novel is complete, while the manhwa/webtoon is still ongoing (as of mid-2025), regularly updating with new chapters.
Q: Is this suitable for young readers?
A: The series is best suited for teens and up due to darker themes, violence, and complex emotional situations.
Q: Is it just romance, or is there action and fantasy too?
A: While romance plays a part, the series is a mix of fantasy, action, high-stakes drama, and emotional survival.
Q: Can you start with the manhwa, or is it better to read the light novel first?
A: Both work! Most international fans start with the manhwa first since the illustrations and pacing are more accessible.
Final Thoughts: Should You Read “Villains Are Destined to Die”?
If you’re searching for a webtoon that combines beautiful art, real suspense, deep character growth, and a unique take on the “villainess” story, Villains Are Destined to Die is a must-read. Its popularity is well-deserved: this is not just a fantasy romance, but a look at how to survive, heal, and sometimes rewrite your own destiny. Penelope’s journey is both entertaining and deeply moving, making this series much more than a guilty pleasure.