The Jeju Island Arc in Solo Leveling stands out as one of the series’ most intense and tragic segments, illustrating the precarious position of S-rank hunters against the formidable Ant King. Intended as a joint mission to reclaim Jeju Island, the raid devolved into a devastating catastrophe. Below, we remember the valiant hunters who lost their lives during this perilous confrontation.
Warning: This article contains significant spoilers for the Solo Leveling manhwa.
Tragic Losses: The Fallen Hunters of the Jeju Island Raid
1. Ryuji Goto (Japan)
The strongest hunter from Japan, Goto Ryuji was renowned for his confidence bordering on hubris. His inability to recognize the true threat posed by the Ant King led to his abrupt downfall; he was swiftly overpowered and executed, marking a devastating blow for Japan.
2. Mari Ishida (Japan)
As a member of the Alpha Team, Mari Ishida’s combat abilities were considerable. However, even her skills could not withstand the Ant King’s ferocious speed. She tragically fell in the initial waves of the attack, decapitated before mounting any defense.
3. Ippei Izawa (Japan)
Ippei Izawa, an assassin-type hunter leveraging speed and stealth, found his skills rendered futile against the overwhelming might of the Ant King. In mere moments, he was killed, caught entirely off guard.
4. Kei (Japan)
Kei, a proficient mage known for his ice magic, attempted to confront the Ant King. Unfortunately, his spells had little effect, and before he could retreat, he met a quick demise.
5. Akari Shimizu (Japan)
As one of the few S-rank healers in Japan, Akari was a crucial asset to her team. Tragically, her healing powers were rendered useless against the Ant King’s might. Before she could aid her comrades, she was swiftly slain.
6. Kenzo Tanaka (Japan)
Kenzo’s reckless aggression often drove him into battle without caution. Sadly, this courageous nature led to his quick demise at the hands of the Ant King, further diminishing his team’s already dwindling morale.
7. Tatsumi Fujishima (Japan)
A part of Team Charlie, Tatsumi had scant chance to respond as he fell to the monster’s onslaught. He and many others lost their lives without ever engaging in a real fight.
8. Min Byung-Gu (South Korea)
As the sole South Korean casualty, Min Byung-Gu was a beloved S-rank healer who initially hesitated to join the raid. Ultimately, he bravely chose to assist his teammates during dire moments, but his altruism made him a target for the Ant King, who devoured him to gain his healing abilities. Nevertheless, his sacrifice allowed others precious moments to persist.
The Survivors of the Jeju Island Raid
Amidst the tragedy, several hunters managed to survive the massacre. From the South Korean contingent, Choi Jong-In, Cha Hae-In, Baek Yoonho, Lim Tae-Gyu, and Ma Dongwook emerged unscathed, thanks to the timely intervention of Sung Jinwoo. On the Japanese side, Minoru Hoshino, Kanae Tawata, and Atsushi Kumamoto narrowly escaped, though their guild nearly faced total disintegration.
Aftermath of Jeju Island and Jinwoo’s Legacy
Following the raid’s conclusion, Sung Jinwoo rose to prominence by defeating the Ant King, reclaiming Jeju Island for South Korea. His incredible display of strength caught the attention of global powers, especially the United States, which sought to enlist him. However, South Korea was determined to retain its strongest hunter.
Not only did Jinwoo defeat the Ant King, but he also revived the creature’s shadow, naming it Beru, who then became one of his most powerful allies. Additionally, he briefly resurrected Min Byung-Gu to heal Cha Hae-In before allowing him to rest eternally, fulfilling his final wish.
Conclusion
The Jeju Island Arc serves as a stark reminder of the mortality even the mightiest hunters face. With the loss of Min Byung-Gu, South Korea mourned the death of its renowned healer, while Japan grappled with the cataclysmic loss of its elite hunting cadre.
About Solo Leveling
This series is adapted from the web novel I Alone Level Up, published by Kakaopage in South Korea and by Piccoma in Japan. The series concluded in December 2021 and is compiled into 14 distinct volumes.
Set against a backdrop of portals connecting Earth to realms teeming with monsters, hunters are tasked with defeating these foes. The protagonist, Sung Jinwoo, begins as the weakest tier of hunters but soon discovers his unique ability to perceive quests akin to a video game, propelling him on a journey to become the world’s most formidable hunter and restore peace to Earth.
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