Netflix's ambitious live-action adaptation of the hit webtoon Solo Leveling was first announced in July, revealing Byeon Woo-seok as the lead actor portraying Sung Jin-woo. Now, in a new development, the series has reportedly been listed with seven episodes, with production slated to begin filming in April 2026. This update also confirms the involvement of acclaimed actress Han So-hee as Cha Hae-in, the formidable S-rank hunter and key character in the story.
The report comes from Anime TV on X, highlighting the project's progress as it moves toward bringing the action-packed narrative to life on screen. However, it's important to note that the episode count has not been officially confirmed by Netflix or the production team, leaving room for potential adjustments as development continues.
Solo Leveling, originally a South Korean web novel by Chugong, follows the journey of Sung Jin-woo, initially known as the world's weakest hunter in a modern society plagued by mysterious "gates" that unleash monstrous threats. After a harrowing near-death experience in a double dungeon, Jin-woo awakens with a unique "system" that allows him to level up his abilities, much like in a video game, transforming him from an E-rank underdog into an unparalleled powerhouse. The story explores themes of growth, survival, and power dynamics in a world where hunters risk their lives to protect humanity from interdimensional dangers. Serialized from 2016, it gained massive popularity through its webtoon adaptation illustrated by Jang Sung-rak, amassing a global fanbase for its intense battles, intricate world-building, and protagonist's compelling evolution.
The series has already seen success in other formats, including a critically acclaimed anime adaptation by A-1 Pictures that aired in two seasons, captivating audiences with its high-stakes action and faithful rendering of the source material's thrilling plot arcs. Now, Netflix's live-action version aims to capture that essence through a blend of Korean drama elements and cutting-edge visual effects. The production is a collaborative effort between Netflix, Kakao Entertainment, and SANAI Pictures, with directors Lee Hae-jun and Kim Byung-seo at the helm—known for their work on films like Castaway on the Moon and Ashfall, respectively. This partnership promises dynamic action sequences and detailed monster designs, supported by an international team of VFX specialists to bring the fantastical elements to vivid reality.
Leading the cast is Byeon Woo-seok, a South Korean actor and former model who transitioned to acting in 2016 with a role in the tvN drama Dear My Friends. He gained widespread fame through hits like Lovely Runner, 20th Century Girl, and Strong Girl Nam-soon, demonstrating his range in romance and action. Fresh off that momentum, he is also set to star alongside IU in the upcoming romance drama Perfect Crown, a highly-anticipated series centered on a contract marriage in an alternate modern Korea with a constitutional monarchy. His depiction of Sung Jin-woo is poised to capture the character's dramatic physical and emotional arc.
Co-starring is Han So-hee, who debuted in acting in 2017 with supporting parts in dramas including Money Flower and 100 Days My Prince. She broke out with standout performances in The World of the Married, My Name, and Gyeongseong Creature, often portraying fierce, multifaceted women in high-intensity stories. As Cha Hae-in—a skilled hunter with depth and intrigue—her casting complements the role's demands for strength and nuance.
This adaptation adds to Netflix's expanding portfolio of live-action versions from Asian comics and novels, building on the triumphs of One Piece and YuYu Hakusho. With filming on the horizon, excitement grows for how the creative team will handle the material's grand scale in a series format. Keep in mind that the live-action YuYu Hakusho adaptation consisted of just 5 episodes but they ranged from 44-55 minutes in length. Likewise, the debut season for the live-action One Piece series saw episodes regularly clock in at 60+ minutes across its 8 episodes.
No premiere date has been announced yet, but as production gears up, additional announcements are expected. The project marks another significant endeavor for Netflix to bring anime and webtoon-inspired worlds to global viewers through ambitious live-action storytelling.
