Disney Takes 2% Stake In Webtoon, Expanding Its Digital Comics Offerings

Disney has announced plans to acquire a 2% equity stake in the digital comics giant Webtoon Entertainment as part of a broader collaboration between the two media companies. The deal, still subject to regulatory approval, comes alongside the launch of a new digital comics platform designed to unite some of the most recognizable franchises in Disney’s catalog in one place

For the first time, more than 35,000 comics from Marvel, Star Wars, Disney, Pixar, and 20th Century Studios will be available through a single subscription. Operated by Webtoon, the service expands on Marvel Unlimited while introducing both vertical-scroll and traditional comic formats. Disney+ subscribers will also gain access to a curated selection of titles at no extra charge via the Disney+ Perks program.

“By uniting our unparalleled collection of comics across Marvel, Star Wars, Disney, Pixar, and 20th Century Studios into a single digital platform, we’re giving fans unprecedented access to the adventures they love – all in one place,” said Disney Experiences chairman Josh D’Amaro in a release. “Through our expanded relationship with Webtoon, the global leader in digital comics, we’re opening doors to new audiences and deepening fan engagement.”

The platform is targeting wide global distribution, with localized editions planned for Webtoon’s Korean and Japanese markets. The companies have already worked together on nearly 100 reformatted classics and original series, optimized for digital devices.

With Webtoon boasting 155 million monthly active users and Disney hosting one of the world’s most coveted storytelling portfolios, the partnership creates what will undoubtedly be one of the most in-demand resources for digital comics.