Netflix is moving forward with its live-action adaptation of the popular Korean web novel and webtoon Solo Leveling. The streaming service has reportedly cast Han So Hee in the lead female role alongside previously announced star Byeon Woo Seok. This project is one of Netflix’s biggest Korean productions and brings together two of the country’s most popular actors.
Han So Hee is in talks to play Cha Hae In, a skilled hunter and fan-favorite character from the original story. Her agency confirmed that she is considering the project. Byeon Woo Seok was already confirmed to play the main character Sung Jin Woo earlier this year. The series will be directed by Lee Hae Jun and Kim Byung Seo, who worked on the film Ashfall.
Solo Leveling Story and Background
Solo Leveling began as a web novel written by Chugong. It was later adapted into a webtoon illustrated by Jang Sung Rak. The story takes place in a world where mysterious portals called Gates have appeared. These Gates connect to dangerous dimensions filled with monsters. Humans with special abilities known as hunters fight these monsters to protect society.
The main character Sung Jin Woo starts as the weakest hunter with an E-rank classification. After a near-death experience in a dangerous dungeon, he gains a unique ability to level up his skills like a video game character. As he grows stronger, he becomes humanity’s hope against increasingly powerful threats. The story combines action, fantasy, and character development.
The webtoon version of Solo Leveling has been incredibly successful. It has received over 14.3 billion cumulative views worldwide. The anime adaptation also broke records. It became the first Korean animation to win nine major awards at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards in 2025. These awards included Anime of the Year and Best Action.
Casting The Main Roles
Byeon Woo Seok was the first actor confirmed for the live-action series. He will play Sung Jin Woo, the hunter who transforms from the weakest to the strongest. Byeon Woo Seok is known for his roles in popular Korean dramas and films. These include 20th Century Girl and Lovely Runner. His casting was announced by Netflix in July 2025.
Han So Hee is now expected to join him as Cha Hae In. Her agency stated that Solo Leveling is one of the projects she is currently considering. Han So Hee is a well-known actress with a strong reputation. She has appeared in successful Netflix projects like My Name and Gyeongseong Creature. She is also known for her role in The World of the Married.
In the original story, Cha Hae In is Korea’s only female S-rank hunter. She is a powerful fighter and a key ally to Sung Jin Woo. She is also known for her strong sense of justice and impressive swordsmanship. Her character plays an important role in both the action and emotional parts of the story.
Production Team and Expectations
The series will be directed by Lee Hae Jun and Kim Byung Seo. Both directors have experience with large-scale projects. Lee Hae Jun directed the disaster film Ashfall. Kim Byung Seo worked on films like Cold Eyes and Castaway on the Moon. Their combined skills in action and storytelling make them a strong choice for this adaptation.
The production companies involved are Kakao Entertainment and SANAI PICTURES. Kakao Entertainment originally published the webtoon version of Solo Leveling. The series will use a world-class global VFX team to create the dungeons and monsters from the source material. This will help bring the fantasy world to life for viewers.
Netflix has a strong track record with live-action adaptations of popular manga and webtoons. The success of One Piece and Alice in Borderland has raised expectations for Solo Leveling. Fans hope the series will respect the original story while adding its own creative elements.
Global Popularity of Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling has become a global phenomenon since its first release as a web novel. The anime adaptation significantly increased its international popularity. Crunchyroll reported that the anime became the most-watched series in the platform’s history. This is especially impressive considering competition from major titles like One Piece and Attack on Titan.
The franchise continues to expand beyond the web novel and webtoon. A video game called Solo Leveling: Arise Overdrive is scheduled for release on Steam in November 2025. Console versions will follow in 2026. This multimedia approach shows the lasting appeal of the Solo Leveling universe.
The live-action series is another step in bringing this story to new audiences. Netflix aims to capture both existing fans and newcomers with this adaptation. The combination of a beloved story and popular actors could make it a worldwide success.
Current Production Status
The Solo Leveling live-action series is currently in development. Filming dates have not been officially announced. Based on typical production timelines, the earliest expected release window is 2027. Netflix has not provided specific details about the number of episodes or release schedule.
Casting for other important roles is still underway. The story includes several key characters that fans will expect to see. These include Sung Jin Ah (Jin Woo’s younger sister), Yoo Jin Ho (a D-rank hunter who befriends Jin Woo), and several high-ranking hunters and guild masters.
The official Netflix webpage for Solo Leveling currently lists the anime version. The live-action series will have its own page once more details are confirmed. Fans can expect more announcements about the cast and production in the coming months.
Han So Hee’s agency 9ato Entertainment stated: “‘Solo Leveling’ is one of the projects that [Han So Hee] is currently in talks for.”
Netflix announced: “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.”
The reported casting of Han So Hee has generated excitement among fans worldwide. Social media reactions show support for both lead actors. Many believe they are well-suited to bring these beloved characters to life. The combination of a compelling story and talented cast makes this one of the most anticipated adaptations of the year.
Credits: Sports Kyunghyang
