The unexpected demise of the main character early in the story sets the stage for an unpredictable journey. This is precisely the case with Solo Leveling. The tale of Sung Jinwoo revolves around his continuous growth in strength, leading him into countless unforeseen situations where outcomes rarely align with expectations.
Many of the most memorable plot developments in Solo Leveling stem from Sung Jinwoo uncovering hidden truths about his existence. From the very beginning, he acquires a peculiar and enigmatic ability that defies his understanding.
Sung Jinwoo’s journey begins where most stories would end (Photo: Solo Leveling/Lucasfilm Ltd)As he unravels the secrets behind this power, it reveals shocking revelations that no one could have predicted.
10. Sung Jin-Woo Awakens as The Player – D Rank Dungeon Arc
At the outset of Solo Leveling, Sung Jinwoo comes dangerously close to death, plunging into complete darkness. Just when it seems all is lost, an eerie message materializes before him. Upon accepting the terms laid out before him, he regains consciousness in a hospital bed.
The fact that he survived is astonishing, but what shocks him even more is that his severed arm and leg have been inexplicably restored. This pivotal moment introduces the central secret of the series and sets the stage for numerous unexpected turns in the future.
9. The Hunter’s World is More Ruthless Than Expected – Yoo Jinho Raid Party Arc
The harsh realities of dungeon raids and the Hunter community become painfully evident to Jinwoo. Having been labeled the “weakest Hunter” for so long, he has faced near-death experiences countless times. However, nothing could have prepared him for the betrayal of a fellow Hunter.
Hwang Dongsuk, a C Rank Tanker, led a crew of Hunters who carried out a sinister scheme. Their strategy involved recruiting weaker Hunters for dungeon raids, only to abandon or eliminate them to secure a larger share of the loot.
Although this revelation was deeply unsettling for Jinwoo, he had already surpassed the abilities of a C Rank Hunter by this point in the story.
8. The Reality Behind Jinwoo’s Power – Double Dungeon Arc
From the moment Jinwoo starts gaining strength, the origins of his abilities remain shrouded in mystery. As time passes, their true nature becomes even more perplexing. The turning point occurs when the renowned psychic Selner warns Jinwoo about an overwhelming darkness within him—one she cannot see through.
Later, Cha Haein hears from Min Byung Gu that Jinwoo’s abilities are far from ordinary. They resurrect the dead and bind them under his control. The revelation plays out that Jinwoo’s power originates from the Shadow Monarch, an ancient godlike entity created at the dawn of time.
Though initially assumed to be malevolent, the ability to command death itself is just as fearsome as Selner had foreseen.
7. Japan’s True Intentions Toward Korea Were Never Genuine – Jeju Island Arc
A highly controversial moment plays out during the Jeju Island Raid. Korea finds itself under siege by an invasion of formidable ant-like creatures. While Japan outwardly agrees to assist in eradicating the threat, their real motives come to light through the actions of their strongest Hunter, Goto Ryuji.
Ryuji’s involvement in the raid was driven by personal ambition. His ultimate goal was to take down an S Rank Dungeon and secure the status of a National Level Hunter. Since his participation was self-serving, he showed little concern over whether Korea survived the attack.
This part of the story stirred much debate due to its portrayal of Japan’s government as indifferent to Korea’s plight, as a devastated Korea would grant Japan greater political leverage.
6. The Truth About the Gates’ Origins – Monarchs War Arc
A decade after the first Gates appeared, they had become an accepted part of daily life. The general populace had grown accustomed to the existence of magic beasts and dungeon raids, making the truth behind their emergence all the more shocking.
Ashborn discloses the real purpose of the Gates to Jinwoo. These portals were deliberately created by the Rulers to introduce mana into the human world. They intended to prepare humanity for the inevitable clash between the Rulers and the Monarchs.
By gradually infusing the world with mana, the Hunters’ awakening process was triggered, ensuring that at least a fraction of humanity would develop enough strength to endure the coming war.
5. Sung Jin-Woo’s Father is Considered a “Monster” – Demon Castle Arc
Sung Ilhwan, Jinwoo’s father, had been missing for years when he was first mentioned. He vanished after entering a dungeon, never to return. The mystery surrounding his disappearance is resolved when an unidentified individual emerges from a Gate.
The shocking part is not just his return but the fact that he is labeled a monster. At this point, it remains uncertain whether this entity is truly Jinwoo’s father or an imposter. The ambiguity of this revelation only heightens the tension surrounding his reappearance.
Trivia: Sung Ilhwan’s strength was immense upon his return. He effortlessly overpowered multiple A Rank Hunters and inflicted grave injuries on Hwang Dongsoo, an S Rank Hunter.
4. The Leader of the Hunter Association is More Than He Appears – Monarchs War Arc
Go Gunhee was once among the most formidable Hunters, but his aging body limited his combat prowess. Because of this, he was seldom seen in battle—until the Frost Monarch’s scheme was set into motion.
The biggest surprise in Gunhee’s confrontation with the Frost Monarch is the fact that the latter immediately recognizes him. This familiarity is unsettling, and the truth is soon revealed: Gunhee is a vessel of the Brightest Fragment of Brilliant Light, the most powerful of the Rulers, sworn enemies of the Monarchs.
3. Sung Jinwoo’s Father Was a Vessel of the Rulers – Japan Crisis Arc
Discovering that Sung Ilhwan was still alive was already astonishing. However, his true nature remained a well-guarded secret for much of the series. Only when the battle with the Monarchs escalated did he finally disclose his real identity as a vessel of the Rulers.
A second chance comes with a mysterious price (Photo: Solo Leveling/Lucasfilm Ltd)Even more distressing was the reason he had been granted this power—to eliminate the Shadow Monarch. Yet, upon learning that his son would inherit this title, he chose not to fulfill his mission. The reunion between father and son was fleeting but left a lasting impact, exposing a rare moment of emotional vulnerability in Jinwoo.
2. The Origins of the Rulers’ Name – Monarchs War Arc
When the Rulers first made their appearance in Solo Leveling, they were portrayed as godlike entities with the capability to annihilate worlds. However, when Jinwoo uncovers the truth, it turns out to be far more unsettling than anyone could have foreseen.
Jinwoo learns that the Rulers were among the earliest beings created by the Absolute Being. Seeking autonomy, they turned against their creator and mercilessly ended his existence. By killing the Absolute Being, they perceived themselves as supreme entities, taking on the title of Rulers.
1. Sung Jinwoo Resurrects Himself Using Arise – Monarchs War Arc
A devastating turn occurs when Sung Jinwoo is slain in battle by the combined assault of the Beast and Frost Monarchs. Just as all hope seems lost, an unfamiliar figure appears before him in his dying moments—Ashborn, the Shadow Monarch.
Ashborn reveals the true nature of everything Jinwoo has endured up to that point. He then presents him with a choice: accept his demise or seize control over death itself by inheriting the mantle of the Shadow Monarch.
Without hesitation, Jinwoo makes his decision. In a defining moment, he utters the very command he has used to revive countless Shadow Soldiers before—this time, to bring himself back to life.