Solo Leveling: Is There Romance? Explanation

Ever since the Anime Expo 2022 announced the anime adaptation of author Chugong’s series, Solo Leveling has been the talk of the town. And when it finally premiered in January 2024, it was the sole topic of conversation across screens and on people’s lips.

The main focus of the series is on the themes of independence, personal growth, and perseverance as seen through the eyes of Sung Jin-Woo, the protagonist. While the series is filled with thrilling action, many have questioned if romance is also a part of Solo Leveling. To clarify, romance is indeed a theme that is explored throughout the story.

This article contains spoilers from the manhwa series. Viewer discretion is advised.

The Romantic Relationship Between Sung Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In in Solo Leveling

At first glance, Solo Leveling may appear to be focused on intense action with brief dialogue to move the story along. However, it also explores the theme of romance, with Sung Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In being the central characters.

At first, Jin-Woo’s main focus is on comprehending the System, the abilities it has granted him, and the path to increasing his level. While trying to level up by clearing Dungeons, Jin-Woo meets Hae-In, who notices that he has a distinct and pleasant scent compared to other Hunters.

Despite their limited and scattered interactions throughout the story, readers are aware of the romantic tension between Hae-In and Jin-Woo when she asks to join his Guild. Jin-Woo puts her to the test by having her battle a Beru, but ultimately intervenes and declines her request.

Cha Hae-In and Sung Jin-Woo (Image via Chugong, D&C Media)

As the story unfolds, Jin-Woo’s strength increases and he faces formidable enemies, all while slowly uncovering the reason for his selection. His relationship with Hae-In becomes the focus when Jin-Woo utilizes his powers to manipulate time and change the course of events.

After the Final Battle Arc, which includes the Epilogue and the Academy Arc, we witness the love between Jin-Woo and Hae-in grow. They begin to get to know each other at school and eventually tie the knot by the conclusion.

Sung Su-ho is born to the couple, inheriting the powers of the Shadow Monarch from his father. However, Jin-Woo made the decision to lock away his son’s powers and memories during his childhood in order to allow him to lead a normal life until the appropriate time.

Summary

In summary, there is romance present in Solo Leveling involving Sung Jin-Woo and Cha Hae-In as the main focus. However, it is not a central aspect of the story and is only hinted at during Jin-Woo’s interactions with Hae-In, primarily from her perspective.

Despite this, the story primarily focuses on Jin-Woo’s leveling up and unraveling the mysteries of the System after the Final Battle Arc. While some may argue that Chugong made a wise choice in this approach, others may believe that incorporating it at various points would have enhanced the story.

Undoubtedly, this series has paved the way for other Manhwa to receive anime adaptations and gain more recognition as a whole. Regardless of the circumstances, it is indisputable that this series has played a crucial role in elevating the status of Manhwa.

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