Netflix Adapts ‘Solo Leveling’ with K-Drama Star
Netflix is set to produce a live-action Korean series based on the popular fantasy series, Solo Leveling. The show will feature Byeon Woo-seok, known for his role in Lovely Runner, as the lead.
Lead Role Announced
Byeon Woo-seok will take on the role of Sung Jin-woo, the main character who battles monsters. This adaptation follows the success of the webtoon and anime versions of the series.
Plot Summary
Solo Leveling, which started as a web novel in 2016, centers on Sung Jin-woo, initially an E-rank Hunter—the lowest rank. After a near-fatal experience, he gains incredible abilities and fights threats emerging from mysterious Gates.
Global Popularity
The series has attracted a large global audience since its webtoon adaptation in 2018, followed by an anime series in 2024. According to a recent report, fantasy adaptations have seen a 22% increase in viewership over the past year, indicating strong audience interest in this genre (Statista 2024).
‘Kpop Demon Hunters’ Success
The announcement comes as Kpop Demon Hunters gains popularity on Netflix. The streaming platform hopes to replicate this success with its new live-action adaptation.
Anticipated Release
Fans are eagerly awaiting the release date of Solo Leveling. With Byeon Woo-seok in the lead role, the series is expected to draw considerable attention and further solidify the show’s global fanbase.
