Warning: The following contains spoilers for the Solo Leveling manhwa!
Solo Leveling has rapidly garnered a devoted fanbase, primarily due to its stunning animation and thrilling combat sequences. Yet, what many fans may overlook are the intriguing Easter eggs and references scattered throughout the anime, which not only allude to other media but also hint at potential future plot twists that only the most astute manhwa enthusiasts will recognize.
In the original Solo Leveling webtoon, artist DUBU infused numerous nods to other beloved franchises, showcasing cameos from characters such as Louis Armstrong of Fullmetal Alchemist and figures from acclaimed works like Parasyte. This tradition continues in the anime adaptation, where the production team outdid themselves by delivering high-quality animation during Season 2 while cleverly embedding little details for eagle-eyed fans. These elements significantly enrich the viewing experience, encouraging audiences to engage with the narrative on multiple levels.
10
The Silhouette of Beru
Fans Confirmed the Jeju Island Raid Arc Before Its Premiere
At the start of Solo Leveling Season 2, fans were buzzing about whether the arc covering Jeju Island would be fully adapted and whether Beru, one of Jinwoo’s most formidable shadow soldiers, would make his debut. This speculation was confirmed by the anime’s production team prior to the season’s release. In the main promotional artwork, observant viewers noticed that the silhouette of Beru is creatively integrated into Jinwoo’s hoodie. Combined with several new scenes designed to build anticipation for the Jeju Island arc, this clever hint set the stage for Beru’s striking introduction, which certainly met fan expectations.
9
The Ant King Channels His Inner Hulk
A Marvel Cinematic Universe Nod in Solo Leveling
In Episode 11 of Solo Leveling Season 2, there’s a subtle homage to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the Ant King’s confrontation with S-rank hunter Ma Dongwook plays out. After being healed by Min Byung-Gu, Ma Dongwook attempts to attack but is swiftly subdued by the Ant King, who repeatedly slams him into the ground, reminiscent of the iconic moment when the Hulk did the same to Loki in the original The Avengers.
While this portrayal may not be an outright reference, the resemblance is striking, especially since, in the manhwa, the Ant King only throws Ma Dongwook once. The production team’s choice to amplify the action reflects the author’s fondness for Western comic book heroes, further layered with references to characters like Spider-Man and Captain America throughout the webtoon.
8
Kargalgan’s Death in the Anime References the Double Dungeon
The Anime Skillfully References Panels from Solo Leveling’s Manhwa
In Episode 6 of Season 2, the anime presents a more intense depiction of Kargalgan battling his elite guards, who have now become Jinwoo’s shadow soldiers. This adaptation not only intensifies the aesthetic of Kargalgan’s demise—originally illustrated with a single stab in the manhwa—but also alludes directly to Jinwoo’s own death in the double dungeon from earlier in the series.
The way the guards prepare to attack Kargalgan, along with the glitching frames, mirrors the suspenseful moments before Jinwoo’s salvation in Chapter 10 of the manhwa. This careful attention to detail further emphasizes the adaptation’s faithfulness to the source material, enriching viewers’ understanding of the overarching narrative.
7
Solo Leveling Season 2 English Dub Offers an Easter Egg for Gurren Lagann
Jinwoo vs. Baran: An Epic Moment in Solo Leveling Season 2
Episode 9 of Solo Leveling Season 2 showcases an exhilarating battle between Jinwoo and Baran, enhanced with unique moments that distinguish it from the manhwa. These include dramatic actions like Igris beheading Baran’s dragon and the explosive aftermath of Jinwoo’s uppercut. Additionally, the English dub introduces a delightful reference to Kamina from Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann.
In the original dialogue, Jinwoo declares, “It’s time to end this,” before his finishing move. However, this was swapped out in the English version for Kamina’s iconic phrase, “Who the hell do you think I am?!” Although the voice actor, Alexs Le, hasn’t confirmed if this was a deliberate tribute, the shift undeniably elevates the moment, capturing the same spirit that defines Kamina’s character.
6
Jinwoo Becomes the Shadow Monarch
Jinwoo’s Job Change Foreshadows Key Moments Ahead
In Season 2, Episode 12, viewers encounter a noteworthy Easter egg as Jinwoo opts for a necromancer class change. For a fleeting moment, his eyes and aura shift to purple, diverging from the manhwa, where his aura remains blue until he employs Monarch’s Domain later in the narrative. This subtle visual alteration hints at pivotal developments in Season 3, specifically Jinwoo’s transformation into the true Shadow Monarch following his encounter in the double dungeon.
This addition not only caters to long-time fans but also shows the studio’s dedication to including layered details that enrich the viewing experience, particularly for those familiar with the manhwa.
5
Jinwoo Is Coerced by the System to Follow Saitama’s Regimen
One-Punch Man Presents the Ultimate Workout to Gain Strength
Following Sung Jinwoo’s reawakening, he is faced with a daily quest from the system aimed at enhancing his physical abilities, which he must complete to avoid penalties. Interestingly, the exercise routine mirrors that of Saitama from One-Punch Man; those familiar with anime culture will recognize the following regimen: 100 sit-ups, 100 pushups, 100 squats, and a 10-kilometer run. Fortunately, unlike Saitama, Jinwoo retains his hair and simply gains height and strength.
This nod confirms the influence of One-Punch Man not only on shōnen anime but also on Korean webtoons. The legacy of Saitama continues to resonate, inspiring numerous references across various media, including series like Invincible and Mob Psycho 100, both creations of the talented ONE.
4
Jinwoo Mimics Goku’s Warm-up Against Kang Taeshik
A Tribute to the Legendary Akira Toriyama
In Season 1, Episode 9 of Solo Leveling, fans can spot a charming homage to Dragon Ball when Jinwoo prepares for his crucial battle against A-Rank hunter Kang Taeshik. His warm-up routine closely resembles that of Goku from Dragon Ball Super: Broly, as Jinwoo hops and alternates his legs before charging into the confrontation.
This addition contrasts with the manhwa, where Jinwoo merely pauses to read a system notification before resuming his fight. While the resemblance may appear coincidental, the timing of this homage coincided with the announcement of Akira Toriyama’s death, leading fans to speculate whether the studio intended it as a tribute. Interestingly, similar Goku-esque stretches appear in Episode 10 of Season 2, as Jinwoo prepares for a sparring match against Ryuji Goto.
3
Min Byung-Gu Urges Jinwoo to Utilize His Powers
A Meaningful Adaptational Change Before Solo Leveling Season 2’s Climax
During the conclusion of Season 2, Episode 12, Jinwoo searches for a way to save Cha Ha In after the Elixir of Life fails to revive her. The episode ends with a dramatic cliffhanger, culminating in Jinwoo looking directly at the camera. However, a whispered line emerges after the screen fades, clearly revealing Min Byung-Gu’s plea for Jinwoo to harness his powers to save Cha Hae In.
This cleverly crafted Easter egg transforms a moment from the manhwa, where Jinwoo’s internal struggle revolves around using shadow extraction on Min Byung-Gu, into an emotionally resonant scene that highlights Jinwoo’s character growth and humanity.
2
The System Notification About the Key to the Cartenon Temple
An Easter Egg that Paves the Way for Solo Leveling Season 3
The finale of Solo Leveling Season 2 features a glitchy system notification when Jinwoo attains level 100, unveiling an intriguing item obtained from the Demon Castle: the key to the Cartenon Temple. This temple, a vital element introduced at the start of the webtoon, underscores the necessity for Jinwoo to reach this milestone, signifying that the system had grander designs for him.
This original detail enriches the narrative setup for the forthcoming Double Dungeon Arc in Season 3, contrasting with the manhwa, where such information is revealed in Chapter 111.
1
The Face of the Architect
A Veiled Hint at the System’s Greatest Mystery in Season 1
The job change arc in Solo Leveling Season 1 remains one of the most riveting highlights, particularly when Jinwoo faces off against Igris the Blood Red Commander, ultimately gaining the Shadow Monarch class. A notable Easter egg arrives as Jinwoo embarks on this journey; for a brief moment, the face of the Architect, the creator of the system that governs the world of Solo Leveling, is visible as the dungeon gate materializes.
This fleeting glimpse hints at the Architect’s significance, especially in light of his expected reappearance during the upcoming events surrounding the double dungeon. The reveal teases an enthralling narrative development that patiently awaits fans in Season 3.