Netflix is officially adapting Solo Leveling into a live-action Korean series, and the role of Sung Jinwoo is going to Byeon Woo-seok, the rising actor and model best known for 20th Century Girl and Strong Girl Nam-soon. This marks a new chapter in the franchise’s evolution—from web novel to webtoon, anime, game, and now, live-action.
The series will be co-directed by Lee Hae-jun (My Dictator, Ashfall) and Kim Byung-seo (Cold Eyes, Ashfall), both of whom bring experience in large-scale cinematic productions. Kakao Entertainment and SANAI PICTURES are producing, signaling a serious attempt to capture Solo Leveling’s massive world without cutting corners.
Solo Leveling, the global phenomenon, is coming to Netflix as a live-action series starring Byeon Woo-seok as lead character Sung Jin-woo. pic.twitter.com/tw7TaUONKp
— Netflix (@netflix) July 9, 2025
From Page to Screen to Reality
Solo Leveling began as a Korean web novel written by Chugong, later adapted into a webtoon illustrated by the late Dubu (Jang Sung-rak). Its brutal world, solo-progression mechanics, and dungeon-driven mystery earned it a loyal global following.
The franchise reached a new audience through its anime adaptation by A-1 Pictures, which debuted in 2024 and returned in early 2025 for a second season. A compilation film, Solo Leveling -ReAwakening-, helped bridge the seasons and set up the next arc.
Now, Netflix is betting that the System, the dungeons, and Jinwoo’s transformation from “the weakest hunter” to near-godlike power can resonate in live-action—no easy task given how effects-heavy the story is.
A Risky But Bold Move
Live-action adaptations of anime and webtoons have had a mixed history. But with Korean dramas commanding international attention and Netflix pouring resources into genre shows, this adaptation stands a better chance than most.
Byeon Woo-seok has the look and presence to pull off Jinwoo’s shift from timid underdog to cold-blooded monster slayer. If the writing and worldbuilding follow suit, this could end up being more than just another attempt to cash in on a fanbase.
No release window has been announced yet. But production is underway, and expectations are already sky-high.
Source: Netflix Media
