Netflix has announced that production is underway on a Korean live-action series adaptation of the celebrated web novel and anime “Solo Leveling”.
The story unfolds in a world where supernatural Gates have been thrown open, unleashing monstrous threats. Byeon Woo-seok has been cast in the lead role of Sung Jin-woo, an E-rank Hunter – the lowest tier – who gains extraordinary abilities after a near-death experience.
As he levels up, he becomes humanity’s unexpected hope, defending against escalating threats emerging from beyond the mysterious Gates.
The franchise began as a 2016 Korean web novel before expanding into a webtoon, anime series, and video game. The novel and toon have managed a jaw-dropping 14.3 billion cumulative views worldwide since its debut.
The anime adaptation swept nine major categories at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, including Anime of the Year, Best Action and Best Character.
The live-action series adaptation promises “vivid characters, dynamic action sequences, and exhilarating quests” and to “set a new standard for live-action adaptations.” After some initial failures (most notably “Cowboy Bebop”), Netflix struck anime-to-live action gold with “One Piece” which has a second season coming early 2026.
The project will be co-directed by Lee Hae-jun and Kim Byung-seo with Netflix teaming with Kakao Entertainment and Sanai Pictures on the production.
Source: Netflix
