Summary
- Beru, the mutated Ant King, becomes a general-grade shadow in Sung Jin-Woo’s army, demonstrating unwavering loyalty.
- Despite his fierce allegiance, Beru’s instinct to kill occasionally presents challenges.
In the dynamic narrative of Solo Leveling, the Jeju Island story arc introduces Beru, a reformed Ant King who becomes a formidable general in Sung Jin-Woo’s shadow army. After a fierce conflict with renowned S-rank hunters from Japan and Korea, the menacing Ant King is ultimately defeated and transformed into a shadow soldier. Beru emerges, pledging full loyalty to Jin-Woo, fostering questions about his potential for betrayal.
The shadows that serve Jin-Woo are characterized by their complete allegiance, acting in accordance with his every command without a hint of hesitation. Whereas the Ant King once exhibited a relentless thirst for power and dominance, Beru now reveres Jin-Woo as the pinnacle of strength, willingly setting aside his malevolent desires. Alongside notable shadows like Igris, Tank, Tusk, and Kaisel, Beru displays a unique and fierce loyalty.
This article contains spoilers for the Solo Leveling manhwa.
Beru: The Most Devoted Shadow to Jin-Woo
Unmatched Loyalty Compared to Others
- Anime Debut: Solo Leveling Season 2, Episode 13, “On to the Next Target”
- Webtoon Debut: Solo Leveling Chapter 105
- Shadow Grade: General
- Story Arc: Jeju Island Arc
Unlike his former self, who sought dominance over all, the newly reborn Beru is singularly focused on serving his master, Jin-Woo. He views Jin-Woo as the apex of power, seemingly erasing traces of his violent past. Among all the shadows in Jin-Woo’s ranks, Beru’s loyalty is particularly profound, driven by the desire to redeem himself from his prior transgressions. His fulfillment is evident when given directives, and he thrives on recognition, yet he feels dejection when his efforts go unnoticed.
“You sure have a lot to say for someone who’s about to die.” — Beru
Beru’s zealous loyalty even takes on a humorous tone, as he craftily finds ways to praise Jin-Woo, contrasting with the more subdued expressions of devotion shown by other shadows. His vibrant character arguably makes him the most loyal of all Jin-Woo’s shadows.
The Challenges of Beru’s Killer Instinct
The Moment Beru Defies Jin-Woo’s Commands
Beru’s origins as a weapon crafted to annihilate hunters complicate his loyalty. Created by the Ant Queen with an overwhelming urge to consume and expand the colony, Beru was destined to become a formidable warrior. Though he now serves Jin-Woo, the remnants of his deadly instincts linger.
During the pivotal Ahjin Guild Arc, Beru unexpectedly acts against Jin-Woo’s directive, marking a major turning point in the story. When Cha Hae-In seeks admission to the Ahjin Guild, she is required to overcome one of Jin-Woo’s shadows, and after defeating Igris, she challenges Beru.
“I have never failed to be amazed by your limitless strength.” — Beru to Sung Jin-Woo
In a critical moment, when Jin-Woo commands Beru to fight Hae-In without causing her harm, Beru initially complies, exhibiting his superior strength without unleashing his latent killer instinct. However, after Hae-In stabs him, remnants of the Ant Queen’s orders surface, leading Beru to view her as an enemy rather than an ally.
Beru’s Steadfast Loyalty to Jin-Woo
A Moment of Disobedience
Aside from the incident with Hae-In, Beru remains dutiful and compliant with Jin-Woo’s commands in the ongoing narrative of Solo Leveling. His momentary disobedience highlights the internal conflict stemming from his weaponized origins, a nuance understood and forgiven by Jin-Woo. Anticipating potential fallout from Beru’s instincts, Jin-Woo had preemptively warned Hae-In before their confrontation.
In the aftermath of the skirmish, Beru’s loyalty deepens as he seeks forgiveness from Jin-Woo, demonstrating a commitment that transcends his immediate actions. His fierce protection of Jin-Woo becomes evident, reacting with great intensity if anyone dares to threaten his master, thereby underscoring the profound bond of loyalty they share.