Byeon Woo-seok gears up for ‘Solo Leveling’ adaptation

Fans of the beloved Korean IP “Solo Leveling” have been abuzz since Netflix confirmed production of its live-action series, with actor Byeon Woo-seok cast in the lead role. 


Fan-favorite actor Byeon Woo-seok PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

Originating as a Korean web novel and expanding into a webtoon, anime series, and video game, this beloved IP has become a global phenomenon, now coming to life on Netflix.

Solo Leveling follows Sung Jin-woo, an E-rank Hunter — the lowest tier — who gains extraordinary abilities after a near-death experience. As he levels up, he becomes humanity’s unexpected hope, defending against monstrous threats emerging from beyond the mysterious Gates.

Since its debut on KakaoPage, Solo Leveling has firmly held its place as its No. 1 web novel and webtoon, garnering a staggering 14.3 billion cumulative views worldwide. Its anime adaptation made history as the first Korean animation to sweep nine major categories at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, inclu­ding Anime of the Year, Best Action and Best Character.

The upcoming live-action series adaptation promises to feature vivid characters, dynamic action sequences, and exhilarating quests, brought to life by a world-class global VFX team. The series will also introduce viewers to fantastical dungeons and uniquely powerful monsters, setting a new standard for live-action adaptations.

Sung Jin-woo will be brought to life by Byeon Woo-seok, one of Korea’s most sought-after actors. Known for his standout performances in “20th Century Girl” and “Lovely Runner,” Woo-seok has quickly risen to global stardom.

The series will be co-directed by Lee Hae-jun and Kim Byung-seo, known for their work in films like “Ashfall,” “Like a Virgin,” “Castaway on the Moon,” “My Dictator” and” Cold Eyes.” Kakao Entertainment and Sanai Pictures are set to produce the series.