Solo Leveling has rapidly emerged as a leading anime series, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative and diverse range of characters. A central element of this success is the hierarchy of Hunters, particularly the elite “S-Rank”category. This ranking system classifies characters based on strength, beginning with E-Rank and progressing through D-Rank, C-Rank, B-Rank, A-Rank, and culminating in S-Rank. While there exist National Level Hunters who surpass the S-Rank tier, these individuals were placed in the S-Rank before the introduction of the National Level designation.
Hunters hail from various nations within the Solo Leveling universe, and while some, like South Korea, boast several S-Rank Hunters such as Cha Hae-In and Baek Yoonho, others strive to showcase their own exceptional characters within this elite group. Determining the strongest among them can be challenging, yet the series provides insights that hint at their true capabilities.
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Yuri Orloff (Russia)
Russia’s Master of Barrier Magic
Yuri Orloff stands out as the lone representative from Russia in Solo Leveling. Characterized as arrogant and self-serving, Orloff often exploits situations for personal gain. However, his prowess in magic, particularly in creating barriers, arguably makes him one of the most formidable characters in the narrative. When a formidable S-Rank Gate emerged in Japan, the government turned to Orloff after losing many of their strongest Hunters, including the legendary Goto Ryuji.
Entrusted with the task of erecting a barrier to shield against the imminent threat, Orloff faced the harsh reality that the powerful Giants breached his defenses effortlessly, leading to his downfall shortly thereafter.
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Goto Ryuji (Japan)
Japan’s Elite Hunter vs. The Ant King
Goto Ryuji is hailed as a top-tier S-Rank Hunter, surpassing many of his peers, and is recognized as Japan’s strongest Hunter. He leads one of the most formidable guilds, demonstrating superior skills that position him well above his contemporaries.
His encounter with Sung Jinwoo prior to the Fourth Jeju Island Raid showcased a breathtaking showdown, revealing how both Hunters outclassed their rivals. Although the anime made adaptations from the original manhwa, the essence of their confrontation remains intact, illustrating Jinwoo’s surprising strength relative to Ryuji’s own might.
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Jay Mills (Canada)
Canada’s 17th Ranked Hunter in the Global Arena
Little is known about Jay Mills, Canada’s powerhouse, except that he holds the world’s 17th ranking among Hunters. His character, mirroring Yuri Orloff’s, presents arrogance and unshakeable confidence, dismissing both potential threats and warnings.
Unfortunately, his arrogance led to a swift demise during a confrontation with Antares, the Monarch of Destruction, showcasing the grave consequences of underestimating such overwhelming powers.
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Lennart Niermann (Germany)
Germany’s 12th Ranked Elite Hunter
Lennart Niermann is unique among S-Rank Hunters for his humility and approachability. As Germany’s strongest Hunter, ranked 12th worldwide, he leads the Richter Guild, known for its exceptional skill.
Throughout the series, Niermann demonstrates a selfless nature, valuing the safety of his peers and discerning the importance of Sung Jinwoo’s cautions regarding impending threats.
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Jonas (Brazil)
Brazil’s Strongest, Ranked 6th Globally
Jonas, representing Brazil, holds the 6th position globally among Hunters, yet little else is known about him. His potential was abruptly silenced by the Monarchs before he could showcase his abilities at the International Guild Conference, where he was to shine as Brazil’s representative.
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Siddharth Bachchan (India)
A Pivotal National Level Hunter from India
Siddharth Bachchan holds the honor of being one of India’s strongest Hunters and ranks as the 4th strongest Hunter globally. Notably, he was among the first five National Level Hunters to emerge in the series.
Despite his late introduction, Bachchan is acknowledged for defeating Kamish, a formidable S-Rank Dungeon boss. Sadly, he too fell victim to the onslaught of the Monarchs, leaving potential abilities like Ruler’s Authority unrealized.
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Liu Zhigang (China)
China’s Leading Star Hunter
Liu Zhigang, introduced as one of the most exciting Hunters in Solo Leveling, solidified his reputation as China’s 7-Star Hunter. In a pivotal moment, he displayed extraordinary power during the Ant threat post-Fourth Jeju Island Raid, effortlessly annihilating numerous foes with a single strike.
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Thomas Andre (The United States)
The Pinnacle of Strength in the Solo Leveling Universe
Thomas Andre is celebrated as the most powerful Hunter throughout the series, holding the coveted number one ranking worldwide. As the Guild Master of the Scavenger Guild, he commands a level of skill that is truly awe-inspiring. His climactic battle against Sung Jinwoo stands out as one of the series’ defining moments, illustrating why he is worthy of his title.
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Sung Jinwoo (South Korea)
The Ultimate Hunter of Them All
As the embodiment of strength, Sung Jinwoo hails from South Korea, home to many prominent Hunters. Cashing in on an extensive array of abilities, he stands as the strongest Hunter in the series, transcending beyond mere mortal capabilities.
By the concluding arcs of Solo Leveling, Jinwoo assumes an almost divine status, being capable of commanding the dead as part of his Shadow Army, turning adversaries into loyal soldiers. His evolution reflects the pinnacle of what it means to be a Hunter in this compelling universe.