Understanding Go Gunhee in Solo Leveling: Is He a Villain or a Hero?

Understanding Go Gunhee in Solo Leveling: Is He a Villain or a Hero?

The introduction of Go Gunhee in the second season of Solo Leveling has intrigued and puzzled many new fans. The character, an 80-year-old veteran hunter, presents a significant opportunity for Jinwoo by inviting him to join the Korean Hunters Association. This enigmatic figure has sparked widespread curiosity about his motives and story. In this article, we will delve into Go Gunhee’s character, his strength, and ultimately his fate, providing a comprehensive overview of this fascinating character.

1. Who is Go Gunhee in Solo Leveling?

Go Gunhee

Go Gunhee is one of Korea’s most powerful S-Rank Hunters, formerly recognized as the strongest hunter in his heyday. Although he has since retired, his influence continues as he now serves as the chairman of the Korean Hunters Association. His commitment to moral integrity and a strong work ethic have defined his character, often leading him to work beyond his physical limits despite the toll it has taken on his health. Even the most skilled S-rank healers struggled to fully restore him following his taxing adventures in the dungeons.

In his role as chairman, Gunhee has had to suppress his adventurous spirit, leading to a mentor-like relationship with Jinwoo. He sees much of himself in Jinwoo, admiring the young man’s unwavering dedication to his family and his personal growth.

2. How Strong is Go Gunhee?

Go Gunhee Strong
Go Gunhee | Source: Fandom

In his prime, Go Gunhee was renowned as an unbeatable S-Rank Hunter and even served as a national hunter. His exceptional abilities made him a prime candidate for being chosen as a vessel by the rulers, a fate also shared by Jinwoo’s father. However, his declining health has restricted his capacity to fully harness the powers it granted him during combat.

1. Physical Abilities

  1. Impressive Strength: Gunhee showcased extraordinary strength, akin to that of steel. He had the power to deflect Sillad’s ice magic effortlessly and could shatter ice shards with a mere headbutt.
  2. Incredible Speed: Despite his age, Gunhee displayed remarkable agility during battles, illustrated by his evasive maneuvers against Sillad’s attacks at Point Blanc.

2. Magical Abilities

  1. Command of Ruler’s Authority: This ability allows Gunhee to manipulate objects telekinetically, demonstrating immense mental control.
  2. Manifestation of the Spiritual Body: He can materialize into the true form of a ruler, unleashing formidable strength during combat.

3. Is Go Gunhee a Villain?

Go Gunhee Face

Contrary to what some may think, Go Gunhee is not a villain; rather, he embodies the role of a supportive father figure to Jinwoo, guiding him as he ascends in power. Gunhee cultivates respect for noble hunters and develops a genuine admiration for Jinwoo, inspired by his perseverance and integrity. He has little patience for arrogant and selfish individuals, such as Hwang Dongsuk and Hwang Dongsoo, holding them in disdain.

4. Will Go Gunhee Die?

Go Gunhee Last Moments
Go Gunhee | Source: Fandom

Tragically, Go Gunhee meets his demise during the Monarch’s War Arc, falling victim to the frost monarch, Sillad. Despite Jinwoo’s desperate attempts to save him, Gunhee succumbed as time ran out. The fateful encounter occurred while he was working late in his office on the last day of an international Guild conference in America. Sillad captured him in a deadly barrier, forcing Gunhee to fight fiercely to buy Jinwoo precious time.

In his last confrontation with Sillad, Gunhee displayed immense courage and tenacity. However, ultimately, his frail body could not withstand the assault. After a moment of weakness, Sillad dealt him a fatal blow. In his final moments, Gunhee delivered paternal guidance to Jinwoo, urging him to uphold humanity’s honor in the coming war against the Monarchs.

In a twist of fate, an epilogue reveals a new universe created through the rulers’ cup of reincarnation, where magical beasts do not exist. In this alternate reality, Gunhee never becomes a hunter, escaping his deadly fate at the hands of Sillad. However, he faced a different tragedy; though Jinwoo’s offering of Holy Water extended his life by ten years, he succumbed to illness, familiar with the memories of their previous timeline.

5. About Solo Leveling

Solo Leveling is a gripping adaptation of the web novel I Alone Level Up, published by Kakaopage in South Korea and by Piccoma in Japan. The series concluded in December 2021, amassing a collection of 14 volumes. The narrative unfolds in a world where portals to monster realms have emerged, compelling hunters to combat these threats. Protagonist Sung Jinwoo begins his journey at the lowest rank of hunters but after a daunting Dungeon quest, discovers he possesses unique capabilities akin to a game interface, setting him on a path to become the mightiest hunter and restore peace to Earth.

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