Summary
- Background characters like Niermann, Ryuji, and Zhigang deserved more development and attention.
- They had untapped potential to add depth to the narrative, but were underutilized.
- Joohee and other characters could have contributed more to Sung’s growth and story.
Solo Leveling narrates the tale of Sung Jinwoo, humanity’s least powerful hunter, who transforms his life and ascends to one of the world’s top combatants after undergoing a second transformation. The story primarily follows the protagonist’s individual journey of growth and self-reliance amidst seemingly impossible challenges.
In Solo Leveling, Jinwoo’s character is well-developed and portrayed effectively, yet there’s a tendency to concentrate excessively on him. This narrow focus occasionally overlooks other characters with promising potential. Characters who make brief appearances, demonstrate significant power, possess intriguing personalities, and are popular among fans, might have contributed significantly more to the story had they been given more attention. Unfortunately, they were not granted the chance to fully unfold their narrative contributions.
6. Lennart Niermann
Richter Guild’s Leader
- Webtoon Debut: Chapter 142
Lennart, ranked 12th best globally among hunters, hails from Germany. Unlike many others in his elite circle, he maintains a humble and courteous demeanor. Instead of looking down on others, Lennart focuses on forging partnerships and diplomatically resolving disputes. His measured approach is a breath of fresh air, as top hunters are often known for their arrogance and boastfulness.
Niermann’s unique character leaves an impression, yet his role in the story seems underdeveloped compared to its potential. Though he participated in key conflicts, he rarely stole the spotlight, even momentarily. What adds to this disappointment is that his presence was utilized at times to boost Sung’s significance. Similar to others, Niermann’s character never had the chance to fully blossom and showcase his full potential within the narrative.
5. Goto Ryuji
Japan’s Greatest Hunter
- Webtoon Debut: Chapter 85
Ryuji, touted as the head of Japanese hunting forces and one of Asia’s strongest individuals, was anticipated to engage in legendary battles. However, during the assault on Jeju Island, he met an ignoble end at the Ant King’s hands, rendering his grandiose buildup for thrilling encounters inconsequential.
In the series, Ryuji had the capability to stand out as one of the most formidable antagonists, but unfortunately, he became merely a stepping stone in the grand scheme of Ant King’s rise to power, leaving his full potential untapped. Fans were deprived of an intriguing villain who could have enriched the narrative with his distinct perspective.
4. Liu Zhigang
The Hero of China
- Webtoon Debut: Chapter 107
Liu Zhigang, hailing from China, is a top-tier hunter on a national level, making his entrance on Jeju Island. His combative style, which is both explosive and relentless in its pursuit of magic beasts, sets him apart as an electrifying character to watch out for in the forthcoming story arcs.
In the continuation of the series beyond his initial appearance on Jeju Island, Zhigang doesn’t receive significant focus or attention, similar to many high-level National Hunters. It’s not surprising that details about his background remain scarce, as he is one of the most powerful characters in the series, yet often overlooked and underutilized.
As a fervent fan of “Solo Leveling,” I can’t help but feel that the story could have been even more thrilling if Liu’s capabilities were fully explored and spotlighted on certain occasions. Witnessing him unleash his full power in combat would have been an absolute visual delight. Regrettably, Liu never received the recognition he truly deserved.
3. Song Chi-Yul
One of the Survivors of the Double Dungeon Incident
- Webtoon Debut: Chapter 1
Song Chi-Yul spearheaded the D-rank expedition group that daringly ventured into the treacherous labyrinth known as the Double Dungeon. The grim events that transpired within its depths left an indelible mark on Song, who carried a deep sense of guilt for exposing his companions to danger.
In the Dungeon and Prisoners storyline, Chi-Yul demonstrated his redemption by bravely battling Kang Taeshik to safeguard Jinwoo and Joohee, even though he only had one arm. This act of selflessness was characteristic of Song, who consistently cared for those around him. Moreover, he shared his expertise with Sung during a time when others overlooked him, aiming to make him a better hunter.
Although Song might not have excelled as a hunter, he could have served as a beacon of wisdom for Jinwoo when navigating complex ethical dilemmas on his journey to become the greatest hunter worldwide. His potential was immense, particularly in acting as a surrogate father figure to Sung, given that Jinwoo’s biological father had been absent for years and presumed deceased. Regrettably, after the Dungeon and Prisoners arc, he became less significant and mostly faded into the background of the series.
2. Siddharth Bachchan
India’s Strongest Hunter
- Webtoon Debut: Chapter 198
Siddharth Bachchan is among the five warriors who vanquished the dragon Kamish and conquered the initial S-rank dungeon. Originating from India, he has significantly impacted the contemporary hunter realm. Additionally, Bachchan serves as the head of the Asura Guild.
In this sentence rephrasing, I’ve tried to make it more conversational and easier to understand while preserving the original meaning.
Despite being a significant figure, Siddharth seems to be overlooked throughout the series. In truth, manhwa readers have no idea what he looks like as he’s merely mentioned in casual conversations and his appearance is never shown. This is quite unfortunate because a National Level Hunter of his skill level could have played a pivotal role in the climactic war; however, this potential was unfortunately not realized.
1. Lee Joohee
Sung Jinwoo’s Oldest Friend
- Webtoon Debut: Chapter 1
Prior to Sung Jinwoo’s second awakening, Lee Joohee had already been well acquainted with him. Despite being the target of jokes and insults from others, she never belittled him and always made an effort to keep him safe. It’s worth noting that they undertook numerous raids together, and on multiple occasions, it was Joohee who rescued Jinwoo from danger.
Lee Joohee’s hunting career met an unexpected halt due to her struggle to cope with the emotional toll from the Double Dungeon raid. As Sung Jinwoo ascended to become one of the world’s top hunters, Joohee and he grew apart. Despite their significant difference in power levels, it’s regrettable that they could no longer maintain their close friendship.
Most fans of the “Solo Leveling” series adore Lee. Though her abilities as a hunter may not be significant compared to Jinwoo’s enhanced status within the hunter world, she could have been beneficial to Sung’s guild, much like Yoo Jinho. Critics often point out that the series is overly centered on its main character, and it’s challenging to justify this stance since it seems to underutilize characters such as Joohee.
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2025-05-25 15:44