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Main Characters
- Sung Jin-woo (Protagonist)
- Cha Hae-in (S-Rank Hunter, love interest)
- Yoo Jin-ho (Sung Jin-woo’s friend and guild vice-chairman)
Sung Jin-woo’s Family
- Sung Il-hwan (Father)
- Park Kyung-hye (Mother)
- Sung Jin-ah (Sister)
- Sung Suho (Son, protagonist of Solo Leveling: Ragnarok)
Sung Jin-woo’s Shadow Army
- Ashborn (The original Shadow Monarch)
- Bellion (Grand Marshal)
- Igris (Marshal)
- Beru (Marshal)
- Tusk (Kargalgan, Commander Grade)
- Iron (Kim Chul, Elite Knight Grade)
- Greed (Hwang Dong-soo, General Grade)
- Tank (Ice Bear, Knight Grade)
- Kaisel (Wyvern)
Hunters
National Level Hunters
- Thomas Andre (USA)
- Liu Zhigang (China)
- Christopher Reed (USA)
- Siddharth Bachchan (India)
S-Rank Hunters (Korea)
- Go Gun-hee (Hunter’s Association Chairman)
- Baek Yoon-ho
- Choi Jong-in
- Lim Tae-gyu
- Ma Dong-wook
- Min Byung-gyu
- Eunseok
S-Rank Hunters (Japan)
- Goto Ryuji
- Sugimoto Reiji
- Tawata Kanae
- Kumamoto Atsushi
- Hoshino Minoru
- Shimizu Akari
- Tanaka Kenzo
- Kei
- Fujishima Tatsumi
- Izawa Ippei
- Ishida Mari
A-Rank Hunters & Associates
- Woo Jin-chul (Chief Inspector, later Chairman)
- Ahn Sangmin
- Son Kihoon
- Park Jong-soo
- Lee Bora
- Gina
- Han Semi
- Seo Ji-woo
Other Hunters
- Lee Joo-hee (B-Rank Healer)
- Song Chi-yul (C-Rank)
- Kang Tae-shik (B-Rank Inspector)
- Hwang Dong-suk (C-Rank)
- Han Song-yi (E-Rank)
- Park Heejin (B-Rank)
- Lee Min-sung (A-Rank)
Monarchs (Antagonists)
- Antares (Monarch of Destruction, Dragon King)
- Baran (Monarch of White Flames, Demon King)
- Rakan (Monarch of Fangs, Beast King)
- Sillad (Monarch of Frost, Snow Folk King)
- Tarnak (Monarch of the Iron Body)
- Legia (Monarch of the Beginning, Giant King)
- Querehsha (Monarch of Plagues, Insect Queen)
- Yogumunt (Monarch of Transfiguration)
Other Key Characters
- Esil Radiru (Demon noble)
- Yoo Myunghan (Yoo Jin-ho’s father)
- Matsumoto Shigeo (Japanese Hunter’s Association Chairman)
- The Rulers (Celestial beings, opponents of the Monarchs)
- The Itarim (Outer Gods, villains in Solo Leveling: Ragnarok)
Solo Leveling: The Ultimate Guide to the Manhwa, Anime & System
In the vast world of modern web fiction, one title stands alone at the top. Solo Leveling, or Na Honjaman Lebel-eob, is a global phenomenon that has redefined the action-fantasy genre. It is the story that took the simple concept of “leveling up” and transformed it into a breathtaking, high-stakes saga of one man’s journey from being the “World’s Weakest” to a being of unimaginable power. What started as a South Korean web novel by Chugong has exploded into a multimedia empire, dominating the webtoon and manhwa charts and now capturing the world’s attention with a blockbuster anime adaptation.
This is your definitive, ultimate guide to the world of Solo Leveling. We will provide a deep dive into the complete, finished Solo Leveling manhwa, explore the stunning anime adaptation, and break down the core mechanics of the mysterious System that started it all. We’ll introduce the key characters, from the unstoppable protagonist Sung Jin-woo to his loyal allies and terrifying foes. From the Shadow Army to the Monarchs, this is your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about the series that is also known as Only I Level Up.
Table of Contents
- The Story: From E-Rank to Shadow Monarch
- The World of Solo Leveling: Hunters, Gates, and Monsters
- The System: How Sung Jin-woo Levels Up
- The Characters: The Cast of Solo Leveling
- From Page to Screen: The Multimedia Empire
- The Ultimate Solo Leveling FAQ
The Story: From E-Rank to Shadow Monarch
The plot of Solo Leveling is a masterfully paced power fantasy that hooks you from the very first chapter. It begins in a world that, ten years prior, was changed forever by the appearance of “Gates”—portals connecting the human world to monster-filled dungeons. In response, a fraction of humanity awakened supernatural abilities, becoming “Hunters” who risk their lives to clear these Gates for fame and fortune.
The World’s Weakest Hunter
Our protagonist is Sung Jin-woo, a man infamously known as the “World’s Weakest Hunter.” Stuck as a low E-Rank, he possesses no significant strength, speed, or magical power. He is ridiculed by his peers and constantly struggles for his life in even the weakest D-Rank dungeons. He continues this dangerous work for one simple reason: to pay for his mother’s hospital bills after she fell ill with “Eternal Slumber,” a mysterious magical disease.
The Double Dungeon and the Reawakening
Sung Jin-woo’s life changes forever when his party stumbles into a hidden “Double Dungeon.” This high-level, hidden dungeon turns out to be a horrifying trap, a sacrificial temple designed to slaughter the Hunters inside. In the final, desperate moments, as his entire party is wiped out, Jin-woo sacrifices himself to buy time for the survivors. After completing a final, sadistic test, he is left on the verge of death. But instead of dying, he wakes up in a hospital bed to find a mysterious, holographic screen floating in front of him—a program called the “System” that only he can see. He has been chosen as its sole “Player.”
Only I Level Up
This is the series’ core mechanic. In this world, a Hunter’s power is fixed the moment they awaken. They can never get stronger. Jin-woo, however, is now the exception. The System gives him daily quests, challenges, and the unique ability to grow in strength with every fight, just like a character in a video game. He can increase his stats, gain new skills, and, most importantly, “level up” without limit. What follows is a relentless, solitary journey. Jin-woo uses his new power to conquer dungeons, earn money, and find a cure for his mother, all while hiding his rapidly growing strength from the world’s powerful guilds and associations. This journey eventually leads him to a shocking discovery about the true source of his powers and a cosmic war that threatens to destroy the entire planet.
The World of Solo Leveling: Hunters, Gates, and Monsters
The world of Solo Leveling is built on a clear and compelling system of rules, ranks, and threats that make Sung Jin-woo’s journey so satisfying.
Hunter Ranks
Awakened humans, or Hunters, are ranked based on their magical power, from the weakest E-Rank to the god-like S-Rank. This rank is absolute and cannot be changed. This is why Jin-woo’s ability to level up is so revolutionary. S-Rank Hunters are treated like celebrities and are the primary military power of their respective countries. Above even them are the “National Level Hunters,” a small group of individuals whose power is equivalent to an entire nation’s army.
The Guilds
Because clearing Gates is so lucrative, the Hunter industry is dominated by powerful guilds. In Korea, the story focuses on the “Five Great Guilds,” including the Hunters Guild (led by Cha Hae-in), the White Tiger Guild, and the Reapers Guild. Sung Jin-woo’s journey sees him constantly clash with and eventually surpass these powerful organizations, culminating in him forming his own guild, the “Ahjin Guild,” with his trusted friend, Yoo Jin-ho.
The Gates and Dungeons
Gates are the source of all conflict. These blue portals appear randomly and must be cleared within a set time, or the monsters inside will “break” and pour out into the human world. Dungeons are ranked by the magic energy they emit, from E-Rank to S-Rank. A particularly dangerous variant is the “Red Gate,” a high-level gate that seals the Hunters inside, cutting them off from the outside world until the boss is defeated.
The True Conflict: Monarchs vs. Rulers
Late in the story, Jin-woo discovers the true, cosmic nature of the Gates. They are not a natural phenomenon but a prelude to an invasion. An ancient, celestial war between two god-like factions—the Monarchs (the sovereigns of all monsters) and the Rulers (angelic beings who protect the human world)—is spilling over onto Earth. The Monarchs want to destroy humanity, while the Rulers are using the Gates to imbue humans with magical power, slowly preparing them for the final battle. Jin-woo learns that his power is not from a simple game System, but that he has been chosen as the successor to the most powerful Monarch of them all: Ashborn, the Shadow Monarch.
The System: How Sung Jin-woo Levels Up
The “System” is the mysterious, game-like interface that grants Sung Jin-woo his powers. It is his constant companion, his ruthless teacher, and the source of his unstoppable growth.
Quests and Rewards
The System functions exactly like an RPG. Jin-woo receives “Daily Quests” (such as “100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 100 squats, 10km run”) that he must complete or be sent to a “Penalty Zone.” He also receives special quests, like clearing dungeons, which reward him with items, new skills, and experience points.
Stats and Skills
By leveling up, Jin-woo earns stat points that he can manually allocate to: Strength (physical power), Agility (speed), Stamina (defense), Intelligence (mana), and Senses (perception). He also gains “Skills” from quests or by finding rare items. These can be passive (like “Stealth”) or active (like “Dash”). This system allows the reader to track Jin-woo’s growth in a clear, quantifiable way, making his rise in power incredibly satisfying to follow.
The Shadow Monarch Class
The System’s greatest gift is revealed after a major battle: a hidden “Job Change” quest. By completing it, Jin-woo unlocks his true destiny as a “Necromancer,” which later evolves into the ultimate class: the Shadow Monarch. This grants him his signature and most terrifying ability: the power to extract the shadows of defeated enemies and resurrect them as his immortal, loyal soldiers. His famous command, “Arise,” is the signal for his unstoppable Shadow Army to be born.
The Characters: The Cast of Solo Leveling
While Solo Leveling is famous for its laser-focus on its protagonist, the world is filled with a memorable cast of allies, rivals, and terrifying villains. This is your guide to every key character.
Main Characters
Sung Jin-woo
The protagonist and the “Player.” Jin-woo’s journey is defined by his relentless drive. He is not a typical hero seeking to save the world; his initial motivation is simple: survival and family. He is pragmatic, intelligent, and often ruthless, but he holds to a strong moral code. As he grows in power, he becomes more isolated, as the gap between him and other humans widens. His transformation from a nervous, weak hunter to a confident, all-powerful Monarch is one of the most compelling character arcs in the genre. He is the “King of the Dead” who fights to protect the living. His story is the core of the Solo Leveling manga, and his journey to discover the secret of the System and his powers defines the plot. His signature phrase is “Arise,” which he uses to call his Shadow Army.
Cha Hae-in
A Korean S-Rank Hunter and the Vice-Guild Master of the Hunters Guild. She is the strongest female hunter in the country and a master swordswoman. She has a unique condition that causes her to smell a foul stench from other Hunters, which is why she always covers her nose. She becomes fascinated by Sung Jin-woo after she realizes he is the only Hunter who “smells good” to her (a sign of his unique power). She is a proud, strong, and capable warrior who eventually falls in love with Jin-woo, becoming his most trusted ally. In the epilogue, she marries Jin-woo, and they have a son named Sung Suho. Her power and dedication make her one of the most beloved supporting characters in the series.
Yoo Jin-ho
Sung Jin-woo’s most loyal friend and “sworn brother.” Jin-ho is a D-Rank Hunter who comes from an extremely wealthy family, the son of Yoo Myunghan. He is introduced as a timid but good-hearted young man who, after being saved by Jin-woo in a C-Rank dungeon, becomes his most devoted follower. He is pure comic relief, often seen in absurdly expensive armor that offers no real protection. His true strength is his unwavering loyalty. Jin-woo entrusts him with the creation and management of his **Ahjin Guild**, making him the Vice-Chairman. His loyalty is so absolute that he is willing to die for Jin-woo. In the epilogue, he marries Jin-woo’s sister, Jin-ah.
Sung Jin-woo’s Family
Sung Il-hwan
Sung Jin-woo’s father, a Korean S-Rank Hunter who disappeared inside a dungeon ten years before the main story, leaving his family to believe he was dead. His fate is a central mystery for much of the series. It is later revealed that he did not die but was trapped in a war in another dimension. He is a “Rulers’ vessel,” one of seven humans chosen to host the power of the Rulers to fight the Monarchs. He returns to the human world to protect his family during the final war, showcasing immense power. His reunion with Jin-woo is brief and tragic, as the power of the Ruler is too much for his human body, and he dies in his son’s arms after fulfilling his mission.
Park Kyung-hye
The mother of Sung Jin-woo and Sung Jin-ah. Four years before the story, she suddenly fell ill with “Eternal Slumber,” a magical disease that put her into an incurable coma. Her hospital bills are Jin-woo’s primary motivation for becoming a Hunter. One of the most satisfying moments in the series is when Jin-woo, after leveling up and completing a special quest, crafts the “Elixir of Life” and uses it to cure his mother, finally freeing him from his financial burdens and allowing him to pursue power for himself.
Sung Jin-ah
Sung Jin-ah is Jin-woo’s bright and determined younger sister. She is not a Hunter and is a normal high school student. For most of the series, Jin-woo is fiercely protective of her, and she serves as his primary emotional anchor to his humanity. She is unaware of the true extent of her brother’s power until she is targeted by orcs who break from a gate at her school, leading to a terrifying incident where Jin-woo’s shadows must protect her. In the epilogue, she marries Yoo Jin-ho.
Sung Suho
Sung Suho is the son of Sung Jin-woo and Cha Hae-in, born in the new timeline created by Jin-woo after the final war. He is the main protagonist of the sequel series, *Solo Leveling: Ragnarok*. He inherits a portion of his father’s Shadow Monarch powers, which Jin-woo seals away so he can live a normal life. However, when a new threat, the Itarim, attacks Earth, Suho’s powers are unsealed, and he begins his own journey, guided by the System and his father’s loyal shadow, Beru.
Sung Jin-woo’s Shadow Army
Ashborn
Ashborn is the original Shadow Monarch and the King of the Dead. He was originally the “Greatest Fragment of Brilliant Light,” the strongest of the Rulers. However, he was betrayed and was forced to accept a new power, becoming the first Shadow Monarch and one of the nine Monarchs. Weary of the endless war, he sought a successor and designed the System to find a suitable human host. He chose Sung Jin-woo and guided his growth, eventually merging with him and passing on his full powers and memories, allowing Jin-woo to become the new, complete Shadow Monarch.
Bellion
The Grand Marshal of the Shadow Army, Bellion is the strongest shadow soldier, even more powerful than Igris and Beru. He was the most loyal servant of the original Shadow Monarch, Ashborn. When Jin-woo inherits Ashborn’s full powers, Bellion and the original Shadow Army pledge their loyalty to him. Bellion is a stoic, no-nonsense leader who wields a unique, segmented sword-whip. He easily defeats Beru in a brief sparring match to establish his dominance as the head of the army, and he leads the charge in the final war against Antares.
Igris
Igris, the Blood-Red Commander, is the first truly powerful enemy Jin-woo defeats and resurrects. He is a towering, blood-red knight who was the hidden boss of Jin-woo’s Job Change quest. After a grueling battle, he is resurrected and becomes Jin-woo’s most loyal and devoted knight. He is a silent and stoic warrior obsessed with swordsmanship and protecting his monarch. His evolution from Elite Knight to Marshal grade is a mark of his incredible growth alongside Jin-woo, and he remains one of the most popular and recognizable shadows in the army.
Beru
The shadow of the Ant King from the Jeju Island S-Rank dungeon. Beru is a terrifyingly powerful and sadistically cruel monster who killed many S-Rank Hunters, including Goto Ryuji, before being defeated by Jin-woo. Upon his resurrection, his personality becomes one of fanatical, almost obsessive loyalty. He is one of the strongest shadows in the army, holding the rank of Marshal, and possesses the unique ability to heal, making him invaluable. His child-like devotion to his “King” and his fierce jealousy of other shadows provide a source of dark comedy. In *Solo Leveling: Ragnarok*, he is tasked with training Sung Suho.
Tusk (Kargalgan)
Tusk is the shadow of the High Orc Shaman boss, Kargalgan, from an A-Rank dungeon. He is the army’s primary magic-user, a massive orc who wields powerful gravitational magic and can cast devastating spells, including a pillar of fire. He also provides a crucial “Hymn of Buffing” that increases the stats of the entire Shadow Army. He is a Commander Grade shadow and one of Jin-woo’s most valuable assets in large-scale battles.
Iron (Kim Chul)
Iron is the shadow of Kim Chul, a disgraced A-Rank Hunter from the White Tiger Guild. Kim Chul was a hot-headed and arrogant individual who tried to kill Jin-woo during the Red Gate incident. After being killed by Igris, Jin-woo resurrected him as a new shadow. Iron is known for his incredible durability as a “tank” and his loud, idiotic personality. He often tries to mimic Igris, with comical results, but serves as a vital frontline defender for the army.
Greed (Hwang Dong-soo)
Greed is the shadow of Hwang Dong-soo, a corrupt and brutal Korean S-Rank Hunter based in America. He was the brother of Hwang Dong-suk, whom Jin-woo had killed in an early dungeon. Hwang Dong-soo sought revenge by kidnapping and torturing Yoo Jin-ho, which led to Jin-woo hunting him down and killing him. After being resurrected as a shadow, he retains his arrogant personality but is forced into servitude. He is later upgraded to General Grade and, despite his past, becomes a powerful soldier in the final war.
Tank
Tank is the shadow of an Ice Bear, the boss of the Red Gate dungeon. He is one of Jin-woo’s earliest and most reliable “tank” shadows. As a Knight Grade shadow, Tank is a powerful beast who can tear through weaker monsters with ease. He is a staple of Jin-woo’s ground forces for a large portion of the story.
Kaisel
Kaisel is the shadow of Kaisellin, the wyvern that the Demon King, Baran, used as a mount in the Demon Castle dungeon. After Jin-woo defeats Baran, he resurrects the wyvern to serve as his personal flying mount. While not one of his primary combat shadows, Kaisel is Jin-woo’s main form of aerial transportation before he learns to fly himself, and his call (“Kiiiiieee!”) is iconic.
National Level Hunters
Thomas Andre
Thomas Andre is one of the five National Level Hunters, the strongest hunters on Earth, and is ranked 1st in the world. He is the guild master of the Scavenger Guild, the most powerful guild in America. Nicknamed “Goliath,” he is a massive, arrogant, and incredibly powerful tank. He is also a Rulers’ vessel, which is the source of his immense power. His fight against Sung Jin-woo, after Jin-woo clashes with his guild member Hwang Dong-soo, is a major event. After being defeated by Jin-woo, Thomas forms a grudging respect and later a genuine friendship with him, even gifting him a pair of legendary daggers.
Liu Zhigang
The strongest hunter in China and ranked 2nd in the world, Liu Zhigang is another of the five National Level Hunters and a Rulers’ vessel. He is a proud and powerful warrior who becomes an important ally to Sung Jin-woo during the final war against the Monarchs. He respects Jin-woo’s power after witnessing his capabilities and fights alongside him to protect humanity.
Christopher Reed
A National Level Hunter from America, ranked 3rd in the world, and another Rulers’ vessel. He is a reclusive figure who is aware of the coming war. He is the first of the National Level Hunters to be targeted and killed by the Monarchs, an event that signals the beginning of the final war and proves to the world that no one is safe.
Siddharth Bachchan
The strongest hunter in India and ranked 4th in the world. Siddharth is a National Level Hunter and a Rulers’ vessel. He is not a major character in the manhwa and does not make a physical appearance, but he is one of the seven human vessels chosen by the Rulers to defend the planet.
S-Rank Hunters (Korea)
Go Gun-hee
The Chairman of the Korean Hunters Association, Go Gun-hee is a Korean S-Rank Hunter and one of the most respected figures in the country. He is an old but powerful man who is deeply dedicated to protecting his people. He is one of the first to recognize Jin-woo’s potential and tries to support him, acting as a powerful and stabilizing ally. It is later revealed that he is also a Rulers’ vessel, but his old age prevents him from using his full power. He dies a hero’s death while defending his country from the Monarchs, his final act being one of defiance.
Baek Yoon-ho
The S-Rank Guild Master of the White Tiger Guild. Baek Yoon-ho has a transformation-type ability that allows him to turn into a ferocious, white-furred beast. He is a rough but generally reasonable man who is one of the survivors of the Jeju Island raid. He is also one of the first S-Ranks to suspect the true nature of Jin-woo’s power after witnessing his growth.
Choi Jong-in
The S-Rank Guild Master of the Hunters Guild, Korea’s top guild. Nicknamed “The Ultimate Soldier,” Choi Jong-in is a powerful fire-based mage. He is known for his calm, collected, and highly strategic mind, but also for his ambition. He is a key figure in the Korean Hunter community and leads his guild in major raids, including the Jeju Island raid.
Lim Tae-gyu
The S-Rank Guild Master of the Fiend Guild. He is a master archer, using a magic bow and arrows. He is known for his somewhat arrogant and high-maintenance personality, but he is a powerful hunter who participates in the Jeju Island raid.
Ma Dong-wook
The S-Rank Guild Master of the Fame Guild. He is a powerful tank-class hunter who specializes in gigantification, allowing him to grow to an immense size. He is a reliable and strong leader for his guild.
Min Byung-gyu
A Korean S-Rank Hunter who specialized in healing, the rarest and most valuable class. He was so traumatized by a previous raid that he retired from hunting to become a farmer. He is convinced to come out of retirement for the 4th Jeju Island Raid, where his healing abilities are crucial. He is tragically killed by the Ant King, Beru, an event that devastates the Korean team.
Eunseok
A Korean S-Rank Hunter who specialized in lightning magic. He was an old friend of Baek Yoon-ho and Min Byung-gyu. He died during the 3rd Jeju Island Raid, and his death is what led to Min Byung-gyu’s retirement.
S-Rank Hunters (Japan)
Goto Ryuji
The strongest hunter in Japan and the Guild Master of the Draw Sword Guild. He is an arrogant and callous man who believes in the absolute superiority of Japanese hunters. He leads the Japanese team in the 4th Jeju Island Raid with the secret intention of letting the Korean hunters die so Japan could claim the island. His hubris is his downfall, as he is effortlessly killed in one hit by the Ant King, Beru.
Sugimoto Reiji
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter and the vice-guild master of the Draw Sword Guild. He takes over leadership of the Japanese hunters after Goto Ryuji’s death.
Tawata Kanae
A powerful and cool-headed Japanese S-Rank Hunter. She is one of the S-Rank hunters who participates in the 4th Jeju Island Raid.
Kumamoto Atsushi
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter with a unique berserker ability. When he is injured, he enters a rage state that dramatically increases his physical capabilities.
Hoshino Minoru
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter who participates in the 4th Jeju Island Raid. He is one of the survivors who witnesses the Ant King’s power.
Shimizu Akari
A Japanese S-Rank Healer. She is one of the first victims of the Ant King during the Jeju Island Raid, her death demonstrating the monster’s cruelty.
Tanaka Kenzo
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter and a brawler-type fighter who participates in the 4th Jeju Island Raid.
Kei
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter who specializes in ice magic. He has an enhanced sense of smell, similar to Cha Hae-in’s ability.
Fujishima Tatsumi
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter and swordsman who is part of the Jeju Island Raid team.
Izawa Ippei
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter who often partners with Kei in battle.
Ishida Mari
A Japanese S-Rank Hunter who is part of the Jeju Island Raid team.
A-Rank Hunters & Associates
Woo Jin-chul
A Korean A-Rank Hunter and the Chief Inspector of the Korean Hunters Association’s Surveillance Team. He is a strict, no-nonsense man who is fiercely loyal to Chairman Go Gun-hee. He is highly perceptive and one of the few people who understands the true danger and power that Sung Jin-woo represents. After Go Gun-hee’s death, Woo Jin-chul becomes the new Chairman of the association and a steadfast ally to Jin-woo.
Ahn Sangmin
The chief of the White Tiger Guild’s 2nd Division Management Department. He is an ambitious and opportunistic man who tries to recruit Sung Jin-woo to his guild after witnessing his rapid growth.
Son Kihoon
A tank-class A-Rank Hunter from the Hunters Guild who leads one of their main strike teams.
Park Jong-soo
A tank-class A-Rank Hunter and the Guild Master of the Knights Guild. He is a level-headed leader who partners with Sung Jin-woo to clear a high-level A-Rank gate.
Lee Bora
An A-Rank mage from the Hunters Guild and a member of their main strike team.
Gina
An A-Rank Hunter from the Hunters Guild who specializes in telekinesis, a rare and powerful ability.
Han Semi
An A-Rank Healer from the Hunters Guild.
Seo Ji-woo
A popular A-Rank Hunter from the Hunters Guild who reawakens as an S-Rank in the sequel series, *Solo Leveling: Ragnarok*.
Other Hunters
Lee Joo-hee
A B-Rank Healer and one of Jin-woo’s original friends from his E-Rank days. She was one of the survivors of the Double Dungeon, but the trauma of the event, combined with her limited healing abilities, eventually forces her to retire from hunting.
Song Chi-yul
A C-Rank Hunter and a kendo teacher. He was the leader of the party that entered the Double Dungeon and is one of the few survivors. He is a wise and honorable man who feels deep gratitude towards Jin-woo.
Kang Tae-shik
A B-Rank Hunter and an inspector for the Hunters Association. He is secretly a psychopathic hitman who uses dungeons to murder people. He attempts to kill Jin-woo, which proves to be his final mistake.
Hwang Dong-suk
A C-Rank Hunter and the older brother of Hwang Dong-soo. He was a “lizard” type hunter who would trap weaker hunters in dungeons to kill them and steal their loot. He tried to do this to Jin-woo, becoming one of Jin-woo’s first human kills.
Han Song-yi
An E-Rank Hunter and a high school friend of Jin-ah. She briefly joins Jin-woo and Jin-ho’s raid party as a “filler” member, witnessing Jin-woo’s power firsthand.
Park Heejin
A B-Rank Hunter from the White Tiger Guild who was trapped in the Red Gate incident with Jin-woo. She is one of the survivors who witnesses his early power.
Lee Min-sung
A world-famous Korean actor who awakens as an A-Rank Hunter. He is arrogant and egocentric, a stark contrast to Jin-woo’s quiet competence.
Monarchs (Antagonists)
Antares
The King of Dragons and the Monarch of Destruction. He is the strongest Monarch and the final antagonist of Solo Leveling. He is a being of pure, catastrophic power who seeks the death of the Shadow Monarch. His final battle with Sung Jin-woo is a cataclysmic event that stretches across dimensions. In the sequel, his son becomes a new character.
Baran
The King of Demons and the White Flame Monarch. He is the boss of the Demon Castle dungeon, a special S-Rank dungeon provided by the System. He is the first Monarch that Jin-woo faces and defeats in battle, though it is later revealed to be a magical copy and not the real Baran.
Rakan
The King of Beasts and the Fang Monarch. He is a powerful, beastly Monarch who invades the human world alongside the Frost and Plague Monarchs, leading a massive army of beasts. He is eventually defeated and killed by Jin-woo.
Sillad
The King of Snow Folk and the Frost Monarch. He is one of the Monarchs who invades Earth. He is a powerful ice-based magic user who is killed by Jin-woo during the final war.
Tarnak
The King of Monstrous Humanoids and the Monarch of the Iron Body. He is a powerful Monarch who teams up with Rakan and Querehsha during the Japan Crisis.
Legia
The King of Giants and the Monarch of the Beginning. He was the “Hidden Boss” of the Tokyo S-Rank Gate. He is captured by the Japanese hunters and later killed by Jin-woo after he refuses to cooperate.
Querehsha
The Queen of Insects and the Monarch of Plagues. She is a terrifying Monarch who leads a massive army of insects and is responsible for the Jeju Island incident. She is killed by Jin-woo.
Yogumunt
The King of Demonic Spectres and the Monarch of Transfiguration. He is another Monarch who invades Earth and is ultimately defeated by Jin-woo’s forces.
Other Key Characters
Esil Radiru
Esil is a demon noble, the eldest princess of the Radiru Clan, whom Jin-woo encounters in the Demon Castle. After he effortlessly defeats her, she becomes his guide in exchange for her life, helping him navigate the upper floors of the castle. She develops a small crush on him and becomes a fan-favorite character. She returns in the sequel, *Solo Leveling: Ragnarok*, as a potential successor to Baran’s title.
Yoo Myunghan
Yoo Myunghan is Yoo Jin-ho’s strict but caring father and the Chairman of Yoojin Construction. He is a powerful and astute businessman who becomes one of the first “civilians” to recognize Jin-woo’s power and potential, offering him a massive sum of money and eventually becoming a key ally.
Matsumoto Shigeo
The callous and manipulative Chairman of the Japanese Hunters Association. He is the one who masterminds the plan to betray the Korean hunters during the 4th Jeju Island Raid, hoping to let them be wiped out by the Ant King so Japan can claim the S-Rank gate. His plan backfires spectacularly when Sung Jin-woo appears.
The Rulers
The Rulers, also called the “Fragments of Brilliant Light,” are an ancient race of winged humanoids who oppose the Monarchs. They are the creators of the System and the ones who began giving humans magic power to prepare them for the coming war. They are essentially angels, and their vessels on Earth include Sung Il-hwan and the National Level Hunters.
The Itarim
The Itarim, also known as the “Outer Gods,” are the primary antagonists of the sequel, *Solo Leveling: Ragnarok*. They are beings from another universe who seek to take over the world now that the Monarchs and the Absolute Being are gone. Their invasion forces Sung Jin-woo’s son, Sung Suho, to awaken his own powers.
From Page to Screen: The Multimedia Empire
The popularity of Solo Leveling has led to a massive, multi-platform franchise that continues to grow, bringing the story to a global audience in new ways.
The Webnovel by Chugong
The story’s journey began on July 25, 2016, as a web novel written by Chugong. This is the original, complete source material, containing the entire story of Sung Jin-woo from beginning to end, including detailed epilogues and side stories that are not all featured in the manhwa. For fans who want the most in-depth look at the lore and the characters’ inner monologues, the novel is an essential read. It has been officially licensed and published in English by Yen Press.
The Manhwa/Webtoon
On March 4, 2018, the Solo Leveling manhwa (or webtoon) was released, and the series became a global sensation. Illustrated by the late, great artist Jang Sung-rak (Dubu) and his team at Redice Studio, the manhwa is a visual masterpiece. Dubu’s art captured the kinetic energy of the fights, the “cool” factor of Sung Jin-woo, and the terrifying designs of the monsters with a style that is second to none. The webtoon concluded its main story in December 2021 after 179 chapters. It is this adaptation that most fans are familiar with, and it is available in English on platforms like Tapas and Tappytoon, with print volumes also published by Yen Press.
The Anime by A-1 Pictures
The long-awaited Solo Leveling anime premiered in January 2024. Produced by A-1 Pictures (the studio behind *Sword Art Online* and *Kaguya-sama: Love is War*) and directed by Shunsuke Nakashige, the anime was a massive hit. It was praised for its stylish animation, faithful adaptation of the story, and an incredible soundtrack composed by the legendary Hiroyuki Sawano. The first season adapted the beginning of Jin-woo’s journey, and a second season, subtitled *Arise from the Shadow*, has been confirmed to continue the story.
The Game: Solo Leveling: Arise
Developed by Netmarble, *Solo Leveling: Arise* is a high-quality action-RPG that was released in 2024. The game allows players to experience the story of the webtoon, control Sung Jin-woo and other popular hunters, and build their own Shadow Army. It has been a major success, bringing the fast-paced combat of the series to an interactive format.
The Sequel: Solo Leveling: Ragnarok
A spin-off/sequel webnovel titled *Solo Leveling: Ragnarok* premiered in 2023. This story focuses on Sung Suho, the son of Sung Jin-woo and Cha Hae-in, as he awakens his own powers in a new era of threats. A webtoon adaptation of *Ragnarok* also began in 2024, continuing the legacy for a new generation.
The Ultimate Solo Leveling FAQ
- What is Solo Leveling?
Solo Leveling is a South Korean fantasy series, originally a web novel, about a notoriously weak hunter named Sung Jin-woo who gets the unique ability to level up, eventually becoming the most powerful being on Earth. - Is the Solo Leveling manhwa finished?
Yes, the main story of the Solo Leveling manhwa (webtoon) is complete. It concluded with 179 chapters. - Is the light novel finished?
Yes, the original web novel by Chugong is also complete, including side stories that take place after the main plot. - Who is the main character?
The main protagonist is Sung Jin-woo. - Why is Solo Leveling also called “Only I Level Up”?
“Only I Level Up” is the literal translation of the Korean title, “Na Honjaman Lebel-eob.” - How many chapters are in the manhwa?
The main story has 179 chapters. An additional 21 chapters of side stories and an epilogue were also released, bringing the total to 200. - Who is the author and artist?
The original story was written by Chugong. The iconic manhwa was illustrated by the late Jang Sung-rak, also known as Dubu, and his team at Redice Studio. - Where can I read the Solo Leveling manhwa?
The official English version of the manhwa is available on platforms like Tapas, Tappytoon, and Webnovel. Print volumes are published by Yen Press. - Is there a Solo Leveling anime?
Yes, the first season of the anime by A-1 Pictures aired in 2024. - How many seasons of the anime are there?
One season has been completed, and a second season, titled “Arise from the Shadow,” has been officially announced. - Where can I watch the anime?
The Solo Leveling anime is available for streaming exclusively on Crunchyroll. - What is the “System”?
The System is a mysterious, game-like interface that only Sung Jin-woo can see. It gives him quests, rewards, and the ability to increase his stats and level up. - Why can only Sung Jin-woo level up?
In this world, a Hunter’s power is set at the time of their awakening. Jin-woo is a unique exception known as a “Player,” chosen by the System to be a successor to the Shadow Monarch. - What is a “Hunter” and what are the ranks?
Hunters are people with magic abilities who fight monsters in dungeons. They are ranked from E-Rank (weakest) to S-Rank (strongest). - Who is Cha Hae-in?
She is one of Korea’s nine S-Rank Hunters and the Vice-Guild Master of the Hunters Guild. She eventually becomes Sung Jin-woo’s wife. - Who is Yoo Jin-ho?
A D-Rank Hunter from a wealthy family who becomes Sung Jin-woo’s loyal friend, “sworn brother,” and the Vice-Chairman of his Ahjin Guild. - What is the Shadow Army?
It is Sung Jin-woo’s ability as the Shadow Monarch. He can resurrect the shadows of defeated enemies to be his loyal, immortal soldiers. - Who is Igris?
Igris is the blood-red knight Sung Jin-woo defeated in his Job Change quest. He becomes one of his first and most loyal Shadow Commanders. - Who is Beru?
Beru is the shadow of the Ant King from Jeju Island. He is one of Jin-woo’s most powerful and fanatically loyal Shadow Commanders. - What is the “Double Dungeon”?
It was a hidden, high-level dungeon that Sung Jin-woo’s party stumbled into. It was a trap that killed almost everyone, but it’s where Jin-woo was chosen by the System. - Who are the Monarchs?
The Monarchs are the god-like kings of all monsters and the primary antagonists of the series. - Who are the Rulers?
The Rulers are the god-like “Fragments of Brilliant Light” who oppose the Monarchs and are the benefactors of humanity. - Who is the Shadow Monarch?
The Shadow Monarch, Ashborn, was originally the strongest of the Rulers who later became a Monarch. He chose Sung Jin-woo as his human successor. - Is Sung Jin-woo a villain?
No, he is the protagonist. Despite inheriting the power of a Monarch (a king of monsters), he uses his power to protect humanity. - What is Solo Leveling: Ragnarok?
It is the official webnovel and webtoon sequel to Solo Leveling, which follows the story of Sung Suho, the son of Sung Jin-woo and Cha Hae-in. - What is Solo Leveling: Arise?
It is the official action-RPG video game for PC and mobile, developed by Netmarble. - Does Sung Jin-woo have a romance?
Yes, he develops a relationship with S-Rank Hunter Cha Hae-in, and they eventually marry and have a son. - What does “Arise” mean in Solo Leveling?
“Arise” is the command Sung Jin-woo uses to activate his Shadow Extraction skill and resurrect his shadow soldiers. - Why is Solo Leveling so popular?
It is beloved for its incredible art, fast-paced action, and the satisfying power fantasy of watching the “World’s Weakest” protagonist become overwhelmingly strong. - Is there a live-action adaptation?
Yes, a South Korean live-action drama (K-drama) adaptation is currently in development.
Conclusion: The Only Way is Up
Solo Leveling is more than just a manga or anime; it’s a global sensation that has set a new standard for the power-fantasy genre. The journey of Sung Jin-woo from a forgotten E-Rank nobody to the all-powerful Shadow Monarch is one of the most satisfying character progressions ever written. With its stunning manhwa art, a blockbuster anime, and a rapidly expanding universe, Solo Leveling has proven that its popularity is, much like its protagonist, without limit. Whether you choose to read the complete manhwa, watch the anime, or play the game, you are in for an unforgettable adventure. The only question left is: are you ready to level up?
