In an exciting casting reveal, actress Han So-hee has joined the highly anticipated Netflix live-action series Solo Leveling, starring alongside Byeon Woo-seok, who was previously confirmed as the protagonist, Sung Jin-woo. According to an exclusive report by Sports Kyunghyang (via Naver), Han So-hee will star alongside Byeon Woo-seok, who was previously confirmed to portray the series’ protagonist, Sung Jin-woo. This high-profile casting has heightened anticipation for the adaptation, which is based on the massively popular webtoon of the same name.
The series, directed by Lee Hae-joon and Kim Byung-seo, known for their work on the film Baekdu Mountain, is a joint production between Kakao Entertainment and Sanai Pictures. With the addition of Han So-hee, whose action prowess was showcased in Netflix originals like My Name and Gyeongsung Creature, the project is shaping up to be a significant milestone in the global rise of Korean entertainment. Han So-hee is expected to take on the role of Cha Hae-in, South Korea’s only S-rank hunter and a fan-favorite character known for her strength and compelling presence in the original webtoon.
Byeon Woo-seok, who rose to stardom with his role in tvN’s Lovely Runner, was cast as Sung Jin-woo earlier this year, following the announcement of the drama’s production in January 2025. The pairing of these two in-demand actors has generated significant buzz, as their combined star power and acting versatility promise to bring depth to the high-stakes, action-packed narrative of Solo Leveling. Additional casting for other key roles is reportedly underway, with further announcements expected soon.
What is Solo Leveling about?
Solo Leveling began as a South Korean web novel written by Chugong, serialized between 2016 and 2018. Its success led to a webtoon adaptation illustrated by Jang Sung-rak (Dubu) of Redice Studio, which debuted in 2018 on KakaoPage. The webtoon has since amassed over 14.3 billion views globally, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. Translated into multiple languages, the series has garnered a massive international following, making it one of the most successful Korean webtoons to date. The story’s blend of intense action, character development, and intricate world-building has resonated with readers worldwide, paving the way for its highly anticipated live-action adaptation.
The plot follows Sung Jin-woo, an E-rank hunter deemed the weakest in a world where “gates” connect the real world to dangerous dimensions filled with monsters. Hunters, individuals endowed with special abilities, are tasked with protecting humanity by clearing these dungeons. After a near-death experience, Jin-woo awakens a unique ability that allows him to “level up” like a character in a video game, transforming him from the weakest hunter into a formidable force. As he grows stronger, Jin-woo uncovers the secrets of the gates and the true nature of his powers, embarking on a journey to become the world’s greatest hunter.
Netflix's Live-Action Solo Leveling Production and Expectations
The adaptation of Solo Leveling has been met with high expectations due to the webtoon’s global popularity and intricate storytelling. Directors Lee Hae-joon and Kim Byung-seo bring their expertise in crafting visually dynamic and emotionally resonant stories, raising hopes for a faithful yet innovative take on the source material. Kakao Entertainment and Sanai Pictures are investing heavily in the project to ensure high production values, particularly in recreating the webtoon’s stunning action sequences and otherworldly settings.
Han So-hee’s casting as Cha Hae-in is particularly fitting, given her proven ability to portray strong, multifaceted characters. Her performances in action-heavy roles have demonstrated her capability to handle the physical demands of Solo Leveling’s intense combat scenes, while her emotional depth aligns well with Cha Hae-in’s complex character arc. Byeon Woo-seok, meanwhile, is expected to capture Sung Jin-woo’s transformation from an underdog to a powerhouse, a role that requires both vulnerability and commanding presence.
As Solo Leveling prepares to bring its thrilling narrative to Netflix’s global audience, the collaboration between Han So-hee and Byeon Woo-seok is poised to be a defining moment for the series. With production underway and excitement building, the adaptation is set to introduce the world of hunters, gates, and epic battles to a new audience.
