Solo Leveling has swept the anime universe. Solo Leveling is supported by an intense plot which is powered by stunning animation. But the question on everyone’s mind is : Is Solo Leveling Korean or Japanese?
This question is burning because “Solo leveling is different from the conventional anime“. Because it doesn’t have Japanese titles, Solo Leveling features characters with Korean names such as Sung Jin-Woo, Lee Joo-Hee, and Cha Hae-In.
This has caused a lot of confusion among viewers. So, without wasting any time let’s dig deeper into the real “Origins of Solo Leveling” and shed some light on its background.
Solo Leveling’s Roots: Is Solo Leveling Korean?
Solo Leveling, or Only I Level Up is different from the conventional anime because it originated in South Korea. It was initially a web novel penned by Chugong and serialized on KakaoPage in June 2016.
It was later published by D&C Media under the label Papyrus in November of the same year. This cemented Solo Leveling as a South Korean tale right from the start.
In 2018, the novel was also turned into a webtoon. Jang Sung-Rak, who is famously known as Dubu, drew this amazing novel. The manhwa (Korean Comic) was also serialized on KakaoPage.
The first season continued until March 2020, and there was a second season that ended in December 2021. However, illustrator Dubu died in July 2023. And this setback was very huge but his work is still legendary in the manhwa and anime communities.
The Setting of the Anime: Korea or Japan?
The Solo Leveling anime takes place in Korea. In the manhwa and anime, it is clear that the action happens in South Korea. The places, references, and cultural settings follow the Korean nation.
The narrative often separates Korea from Japan, showing that the true setting of the anime is still in the nation where it began.
Why Does Solo Leveling Have a Japanese Version?
While the anime is originally Korean, Japan has its own modified version. In Japan, Solo Leveling has undergone several changes, including renaming characters. For example;
- Sung Jin-Woo becomes ⇒ Shun Mizushino
- Yoo Jin-Ho becomes ⇒ Kenta Moribishi
- Cha Hae-In becomes ⇒ Shizuku Kousaka
- Go Gun-Hee becomes ⇒ Kyoomi Gotou
Even the setting has been shifted from South Korea to Tokyo, Japan. It is probably because of diplomatic tensions between Korea and Japan. By modifying names and places, the anime prevents possible controversy in Japan.
But internationally, fans prefer the original one with genuine Korean names and backdrops.
Is Solo Leveling an Anime or a Manhwa Adaptation?
While Solo Leveling is now an anime, it began as a Manga. The transition from web novel to manhwa made it popular within Korea. Eventually, its immense global success led to an anime adaptation.
Interestingly, the anime is being made by Japanese studios. A-1 Pictures, a prominent Japanese animation company, is undertaking the project. That could be one reason why many viewers confuse it with a Japanese anime.
Its roots, nonetheless, are Korean, and the narrative draws its inspiration from South Korean culture and landscapes.
The Global Popularity of Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling is not only a Korean phenomenon—it has won over fans all over the world. The webtoon was read by millions of readers in various languages. Webtoon and Tapas made it easier for international viewers to access the series. The anime release also widened its scope, reaching more people.
Why Is Solo Leveling So Popular?
There are a number of reasons why Solo Leveling has been so successful;
- Distinct Power System – The main character, Sung Jin-Woo, goes from being the weakest hunter to becoming the strongest. His story is interesting and rewarding for fans.
- Breathtaking Art – The artwork of the manhwa, particularly done by Dubu, created a high benchmark for visuals.
- Hooked Storyline – The story keeps viewers at the edge of their seats, making it difficult to put the book down or stop watching.
- International Appeal – Even though Korean, the tale appeals to fans globally, much like Japanese anime.
Will Solo Leveling Popularity Have an Effect on Korean Anime?
Since Solo Leveling showed that Korean content is not inferior to Japanese anime, the question has arisen whether this will make Korean anime adaptations more popular. South Korea boasts a successful webtoon market, and if Solo Leveling is successful, then it could lead to adaptations in the future.
Others believe that other successful webtoons in Korea, such as Tower of God and The God of High School, will get more attention.
Final Verdict: Solo Leveling is Korean
To answer the question conclusively — Solo Leveling is a Korean series. It was developed in South Korea, authored by a South Korean writer, and illustrated by a South Korean cartoonist. Although the anime is produced in Japan, its origins and narrative are irrevocably Korean.
For those enthusiasts who desire the most genuine experience, reading the original web novel or manhwa is the best way to enjoy Solo Leveling as originally intended. Whether its adaptations, the series remains a testament to the strength of Korean storytelling.
