What's the phenomenon of Solo Leveling?

The second season of the *Solo Leveling* anime is here! This adaptation of the popular South Korean manhwa, brought to life by A-1 Pictures, plunges viewers into a world where portals unleash monstrous creatures upon Earth. Only a select few—hunters—possess the power to combat these threats, ranked from E-rank to S-rank, mirroring the dungeon difficulty levels.

Table of Contents

• What is the anime about?
• Why has the anime become so popular?
• The second reason for its popularity: Jin-woo himself
• Finally, the marketing played a big role
• Why does the anime receive criticism?
• Is it worth watching?

What is the anime about?

The story follows Sung Jin-woo, an E-rank hunter—the weakest of the weak—who barely manages to clear even the simplest dungeons. During a perilous mission, his team is trapped, and Jin-woo's selfless sacrifice earns him a unique ability: the power to level up. This transforms his life, granting him a game-like interface and the unprecedented ability to enhance his own rank. His journey to become stronger, though not instantaneous, is the core of the series.

Why has the anime become so popular?

The anime's success stems from several factors. First, its faithful adaptation of the beloved manhwa. A-1 Pictures, known for hits like *Kaguya-sama: Love is War* and *Sword Art Online*, expertly recreated the action-packed source material. The continuous combat and straightforward storyline appeal to a broad audience, avoiding complex world-building that might alienate viewers. The studio also masterfully crafted the atmosphere, using light and shadow to enhance the tension and excitement.

The second reason for its popularity is Jin-woo himself

Jin-woo's compelling character arc is a major draw. Starting as the "Worst Weapon of Humanity," his initial weakness and subsequent self-sacrifice resonate with viewers. He's not a flawless hero; he makes mistakes and faces consequences, earning his power through hard work and dedication. This relatable portrayal, combined with his unwavering commitment to self-improvement, makes him a compelling protagonist.

Finally, the marketing played a big role

The memorable "statue of God" image, widely circulated as a meme, generated significant curiosity and drew in viewers unfamiliar with the manhwa.

Why does the anime receive criticism?

Some critics point to a clichéd plot and abrupt shifts in tone between action and calmer moments. The portrayal of Jin-woo as an overpowered protagonist, even bordering on a Mary Sue, is another common criticism. The supporting characters often feel underdeveloped, lacking depth beyond their initial traits. Additionally, some manhwa readers feel the anime's pacing, while suitable for the original source, could have been adapted more effectively for a different medium.

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely! If you crave non-stop action with a focus on the main character's journey, and don't mind less developed supporting characters, *Solo Leveling* is a binge-worthy experience. However, if Jin-woo's story doesn't grab you within the first couple of episodes, you might want to reconsider investing your time in the series, its second season, or even the related gacha game.