Netflix Unveils Live-Action Solo Leveling Series Starring Byeon Woo-seok

While Kpop Demon Hunters might be the current sensation on Netflix, the platform is preparing to bring back a beloved classic in live-action form. On July 10, Netflix announced its plans to produce a Korean live-action series adaptation of the acclaimed fantasy tale, Solo Leveling. The leading role of monster-slayer Sung Jin-woo will be played by none other than Byeon Woo-seok, known for his performance in Lovely Runner.

Originally launched as a web novel in 2016, Solo Leveling narrates the journey of Sung Jin-woo, an E-rank Hunter, which is the lowest classification among Hunters. After a harrowing experience, he acquires extraordinary abilities and evolves into humanity’s last hope, battling monstrous beings emerging from enigmatic Gates.

This series attracted a diverse global audience after its webtoon and anime adaptations were released in 2018 and 2024, respectively.

Solo Leveling has quickly risen to become one of the most celebrated franchises, with its web novel and webtoon amassing a staggering 14.3 billion views globally.

The anime adaptation achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the first Korean animation to secure nine major awards at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, including Anime of the Year and Best Character.

In a statement, Netflix revealed that the upcoming live-action Solo Leveling series will showcase “vivid characters, dynamic action sequences, and exhilarating quests,” all crafted by a world-class VFX team.

Leading this ambitious project are directors Lee Hae-jun and Kim Byung-seo, who previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed film My Dictator in 2014.