WEBTOON Expands Creator Programs for 2026

WEBTOON has announced an exciting expansion of its Creator Programs for 2026, aimed at providing more resources, support, and opportunities for creators to build their careers. This initiative will introduce additional monetization options, detailed plans for which will be unveiled in 2026. Moreover, WEBTOON will enhance support for creators at conventions and events, bringing more talent to major conventions and introducing new educational programs to foster career development. The expansion will commence with the launch of a Creator Residency program in the first quarter of 2026.

Enhanced Monetization Opportunities

The upcoming monetization features will significantly improve opportunities for creators on the CANVAS platform. A new dashboard will be introduced to help creators track series performance effectively. Currently, CANVAS creators can earn money through the Super Like Program, Ad Revenue Sharing Program, and Patreon integration. Unlike Originals creators, who often have fixed contracts with specific earnings per episode, CANVAS creators must meet certain thresholds (e.g., monthly page views and subscribers) to qualify for monetization.

Increased Investment in Creator Support

In addition to new monetization avenues, WEBTOON is committed to investing more heavily in creators at conventions and industry events. Following a notable presence at US conventions in the past year, the company plans to engage more creators in major events, allowing them to interact with fans. Furthermore, WEBTOON will expand its presence at select international conventions outside the US, Korea, and Japan. During these events, there will be opportunities for creator meet-ups and portfolio reviews, especially for international creators in Europe and Southeast Asia. Additionally, the Creator Care teams will host digital Open Houses for newcomers to discuss goals and aspirations. A revamped Creator Resource Hub will also launch, featuring a new video series highlighting creator experiences and success stories.

Creator Residency and VIP Recognition Programs

WEBTOON is also launching the Creator Residency and VIP recognition programs. The Creator Residency, held twice a year, invites up to nine original creators from the English-language service to a two-week workshop at the company’s Los Angeles headquarters. This immersive experience includes story-building sessions with WEBTOON editors, skill-development workshops, and opportunities to connect with various teams within the company. The first residency applications will open on December 18, 2026, through the Creator Portal. The VIP recognition program will allow select creators to visit WEBTOON’s office in Korea, facilitating meetings with industry leaders and collaborations with global talent.

Insights from Previous Residency Participants

The Creator Residency program builds upon a successful pilot conducted in 2025, which involved 23 creators such as Junepurrr (SubZero), instantmiso (Siren’s Lament), and Ucheomaaa (Vibe Check!). This pilot provided attendees with personalized time with editors, small-group workshops, and even complimentary physical therapy sessions.

“The Creator Residency Program has been a validating experience—coming to LA with other creators and sharing our journeys has been incredibly enriching,” said instantmiso.

“This program offered a valuable opportunity to learn, prepare for new series, and grow as artists through community collaboration,” added Arechan, creator of Señorita Cometa.

Looking Ahead

Further details about the Creator Residency program and additional support initiatives for creators will be unveiled in the following months.