This article contains spoilers for the popular series Solo Leveling.
Overview of Sung Jinwoo’s Journey
- Sung Jinwoo began his journey as the weakest E-rank Hunter but transformed into a formidable force after being selected by the System as a Player.
- His failure to recruit the powerful Shadow, Kamish, hindered Jinwoo from becoming virtually unstoppable.
- Nevertheless, Jinwoo commands a diverse and powerful army of Shadows, including notable figures like Greed and others.
As the central character of Solo Leveling, Sung Jinwoo’s journey is remarkable. Initially, he ranked as the lowest E-rank Hunter, struggling to earn enough to support himself. Due to his limitations, his adventures were often confined to the most basic gates, far from any real challenge that other Hunters faced.
Everything took a dramatic turn when he entered the perilous Double Dungeon, a near-fatal experience that arguably marked his rebirth. Inside, Jinwoo was chosen by the System to take on the role of Player, unlocking a cache of new powers that propelled him towards greater challenges. However, the author introduced a critical moment that significantly restrained Jinwoo’s capabilities.
The Author’s Decision to Limit Sung Jinwoo
During the arc of the International Guild Conference, Sung Jinwoo sought permission to access the corpse of Kamish while visiting the United States. Despite the surprise elicited by his request, Jinwoo’s determination was undeniable. His aim was to resurrect Kamish as a member of his Shadow Army. Although he failed twice, Jinwoo finally succeeded on his third attempt.
In a conversation with Kamish, the powerful magic beast disclosed his servitude to Antares and issued a warning regarding four individuals endowed with the power of the Rulers. Tragically, before becoming a permanent member of Jinwoo’s army, Kamish’s body began to deteriorate, leading to his ultimate dissolution.
Kamish: A Legendary Beast
This turn of events was a significant setback for Jinwoo, as recruiting a creature of Kamish’s caliber would have elevated him far above other Hunters. With a record of defeating numerous S-rank Hunters, Kamish possessed extraordinary strength and durability, making him nearly invulnerable. In fact, it took five specialized Hunters, four of whom were empowered by Rulers, to finally subdue him.
Had Jinwoo successfully recruited Kamish, his encounters with adversaries would have been substantially reduced, if not eliminated altogether, until stronger foes emerged. Importantly, since Kamish would have become a Shadow, he would have been functionally immortal. The author’s choice to deny Jinwoo this powerful ally remains contentious, but ultimately it serves the narrative well.
Sung Jinwoo’s Army of Shadows
A Strong Coalition of Shadows
Despite the loss of Kamish, Jinwoo has still accumulated a formidable selection of Shadows. Notably, he successfully recruited Hwang Dongsoo, an S-rank Hunter, who he named Greed, reflecting his complex personality. Greed stands out as a General Grade Shadow, capable of overpowering elite S-rank Hunters. By this point in the narrative, Jinwoo boasts a dynamic roster:
- Beru
- Igris
- Tusk
- Jima
- Iron
- Kaisel
- Tank
- Greed
This impressive assembly of Shadows has assisted Jinwoo in overcoming various formidable threats. In Season 2 of Solo Leveling, viewers witnessed Jinwoo successfully recruit Beru, Tusk, Iron, Tank, and Kaisel. Anticipation builds for Season 3, where it is likely that he will also integrate Greed and Jima into his ranks.
Interestingly, the dynamics with Greed may evolve since Jinwoo harbored resentment against Hwang Dongsoo following his brutal treatment of Yoo Jinho. Although he ultimately killed Dongsoo, the loyalty of the Shadows suggests that these feelings might not last long.
Fans are currently eager for updates regarding the release of Season 3 of Solo Leveling. Unfortunately, there have been no announcements from official sources, causing concern among fans. Projections suggest that the next season might not arrive until 2027, as the director is currently occupied with other commitments. Thus, it may be a while before audiences see Sung Jinwoo’s exploits unfold once more.