When Will Jin-Woo Finally Realize His Love for Cha Hae-In?

This article contains spoilers from the Solo Leveling manhwa.

Summary

Jin-Woo is unaware of Cha Hae-In’s feelings.
Jin-Woo opens his heart to Cha Hae-In, but with difficulty.
Their relationship subtly shifts in the final story arcs.

In the series known as Solo Leveling, the main character, Sung Jin-Woo, primarily concentrates on enhancing his power, vanquishing formidable adversaries, safeguarding his dear ones, and salvaging the world. Amidst the action and tension, an unforeseen bond between Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In subtly develops within Solo Leveling.

It’s intriguing to ponder how Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In came to be together, given that Jin-Woo is not one to readily share his feelings after the hardships he’s faced throughout his life. Building trust with him has always been challenging, as his past hunters betrayed him due to his perceived weakness. Yet, unexpectedly, Jin-Woo develops affection for Cha Hae-In over time. However, the mystery remains: How long will it take before Jin-Woo fully embraces love towards Cha Hae-In?

Sung Jin-Woo’s Lack of Awareness

Cha Hae-In Falls in Love With Jin-Woo First

In the world of “Solo Leveling,” Jin-Woo finds himself too preoccupied with his personal circumstances to indulge in romantic pursuits, despite the evident camaraderie he shares with numerous female characters. His home life being less than ideal leaves him without the leisure to go on dates or even contemplate courting someone. Even after attaining the power and wealth to live independently, romance never crosses his mind as a priority.

Afterward, we encounter Cha Hae-In, who is immediately captivated by Jin-Woo’s untainted mana and overpowering strength. However, as her thoughts swarm with him, Jin-Woo, the strongest hunter, maintains his composure, undeterred by anything that might divert his focus from pursuing his personal ambitions. With the looming danger of the Monarchs approaching swiftly and significantly, it’s challenging to divert his concentration from the pressing and critical tasks at hand.

“It’s different when I’m with him. I feel good”—Cha Hae-In

It seems Jin-Woo is concerned that Cha Hae-In may have hidden intentions regarding her actions towards him. This highlights how unaware he is about her true feelings for him, as well as the difficulty others face gaining his trust. Considering the betrayals he’s experienced in the past, it’s not surprising that Jin-Woo finds it challenging to extend trust easily.

Jin-Woo’s Heart Slowly Opens for Cha Hae-In

How Their Friendship Began

In the heart of the Ahjin Guild saga, it’s there, right then, when the extraordinary S-rank hunter, Cha Hae-In, openly expresses her intrigue towards me, that I find my heart opening up to her. This moment signifies a pivotal shift in our relationship, as for the first time, Cha Hae-In bares her soul, revealing her perplexing emotions.

Initially, Jin-Woo appears calm about Cha Hae-In’s confession, but it stirs something within him. In truth, he starts scrutinizing himself in the mirror, seemingly puzzled as to why she finds attraction towards him among many others. He even requests her sister to rate his looks on a scale of 1 to 10, which is quite uncharacteristic of him.

“You’re the only friend I have, Hae-In”—Sung Jin-Woo

As time goes by, Jin-Woo starts viewing Cha Hae-In differently following her disclosure about Min Byung-Gu’s message. His confidence in her increases significantly, particularly after she bravely endeavors to aid him in battling the system’s designer during the Double Dungeon storyline. From then on, Jin-Woo regards Cha Hae-In as a sincere friend, someone he can lean on when situations become too challenging and burdensome.

So, When Does the Romance Truly Begin?

The Shift in Their Relationship

Before the Frost Monarch, Beast Monarch, and Plague Monarch attack Seoul, a significant change in Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In’s relationship might occur. Despite their claims of just being friends, it’s evident that there’s something new between them due to their furtive glances, subtle actions, and the tender way they interact with each other.

It seems that Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In have discovered tranquility and ease in each other’s company amidst all the turmoil and ruckus. Their awkwardness is just a sign of two individuals beginning to acknowledge their growing feelings towards one another. Yet, despite fan speculation about their romantic future, creator Chugong has something different planned for them.

“How could I ever tell him…I want you by my side until I draw my last breath?”—Cha Hae-In

Sadly, unlike many other anime couples, Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In didn’t have a dramatic confession or passionate kiss by the end of their story in Solo Leveling. However, for those eager to delve deeper into their romantic journey, it’s recommended to explore additional content outside the main manhwa. The side stories within this series offer insights into their relationship development once the storyline has been adjusted in the new timeline.

2025-05-31 16:44