Solo Leveling: The High Price Japan Faced at Jeju Island

Summary of the Jeju Island Raid

• The Jeju Island Raid resulted in significant losses for South Korea and Japan, with Japan suffering the critical loss of 7 S-Rank Hunters.
• Japan’s tactical plans during the Raid collapsed upon the emergence of the Ant King, leading to devastating casualties among their ranks.
• Jin-Woo’s decisive arrival at Jeju prevented what could have been a catastrophic failure for the Raid, while simultaneously revealing Japan’s questionable motives.

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The aftermath of the Jeju Island Raid is unprecedented within the Solo Leveling saga. The loss of several S-Rank Hunters marks one of the darkest moments, particularly for Japan, which endured a severe blow to its elite ranks. This incident prompts a crucial inquiry: What factors contributed to Japan’s catastrophic outcomes during this Raid?

For the Jeju Island Raid, both South Korea and Japan mobilized their Hunters to confront the looming threat. Facing their most formidable adversary, the Ant King, Japan’s hopes were quickly dashed as their premeditated strategies crumbled. This leads to further reflection on the Raid’s implications—how will these events shape Japan’s future?

Japan’s Loss at Jeju Island

A Seemingly Strong Alliance

Initially, the monstrous ant threat on Jeju Island pushed South Korea to its limits. Unable to regain control of the island, they accepted Japan’s assistance, which included 10 of their finest S-Rank Hunters. United, they formed a force of 16 S-Rank Hunters, making what once seemed an impossible battle appear achievable.

Japan’s Schemes

As the events unfolded on the island, it became evident that Japan had ulterior motives. While their objective of neutralizing the ant threat was genuine, they also sought to exploit the South Korean forces for their gain. Their strategy aimed to position South Korean Hunters as the first line of defense, allowing Japan to siphon off credit while remaining relatively protected from danger. Should the situation worsen, it was clear they were prepared to abandon their allies.

Japan Took the Greater Hit

Japan’s plans unraveled dramatically with the arrival of the Ant King. This powerful adversary swiftly decimated many Japanese Hunters. Even with their leader, Goto Ryuji, lost amidst the chaos, the remnants of Japan’s team continued to plot their next move. However, the dire circumstances led them to retract their support for the South Korean Hunters and reevaluate their strategy.

We weren’t able to confirm the survival of the Korean hunters…

…There’s no way they can win when they’re already exhausted.

The ants will be weak from all the fighting, as well.

If we can strike down the strong one, the others will be just fodder.

– Matsumoto Shigeo, Season 2 Episode 12

Jin-Woo Denied Japan’s Schemes Completely

Had Jin-Woo not intervened and teleported to Jeju Island, the South Korean Hunters would likely have faced annihilation at the hands of the Ant King. The surviving S-Rank Hunters from Japan, with anticipated reinforcements, could have eventually taken control and claimed victory for themselves. Jin-Woo’s impressive display of power, however, shifted the tide, protecting his team and ensuring survival.

How Badly Will the Jeju Raid Affect Japan?

The consequences for Japan are profound with the loss of 7 pivotal S-Rank Hunters, which has dramatically weakened their defense capabilities. The loss of their prominent guild leader further jeopardizes Japan’s status in international affairs. If confronted by future threats, Japan may find itself increasingly reliant on other nations for assistance. Furthermore, should their ulterior motives come to light, they risk damaging relationships with potential allies.

Surviving Japanese S-Rank Hunters

As the Jeju Island Arc draws to a close, it leaves an indelible mark on the Solo Leveling universe. Japan, which once stood robust alongside nations such as South Korea, now may need to rely on external support in future confrontations. Will Jin-Woo utilize his newfound powers to play a pivotal role in ensuring Japan’s security moving forward?

Catch the latest episodes of Solo Leveling streaming on Crunchyroll.

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