Ranking the 7 Strongest Hunters Who Died in Solo Leveling

Overview

In the perilous world of Solo Leveling, hunters confront dangerous enemies, leading to critical choices that can have profound consequences.
The deaths of formidable hunters like Hwang Dongsoo and Goto Ryuji showcase the brutal realities they face.
Notable antagonists, including Yuri Orloff and Christopher Reed, amplify the series’ dramatic tension and complexity.

The realm of Solo Leveling is filled with relentless threats, compelling hunters to make swift decisions that could mean the difference between survival and demise. Each encounter with terrifying monsters and ancient evils places immense pressure on these brave individuals, often leading to tragic outcomes.

As they navigate this unforgiving landscape, hunters frequently experience heartrending losses, reflecting the sacrifices demanded by their calling. Some perish heroically, while others fall due to misjudgments. The fates of several key hunters underline the merciless nature of their environment, reinforcing that even the most skilled can meet their end when faced with the wrong choice.

Spoiler Alert: The following sections discuss plot details from Solo Leveling.

7. Hwang Dongsoo

Korean S-Ranker Who Relocated to America

Anime Debut: Episode 7
Webnovel Debut : Chapter 36
Abilities: Enhanced Strength and Speed

Following the death of his comrade Dongsuk, Hwang Dongsoo became consumed by vengeance. During the International Guild Conference in America, he sought revenge against Jinwoo by abducting Yoo Jinho, believing chaos would ensue and lead to a confrontation between himself and Thomas Andre.

Determined to act, Hwang declared, “If I don’t kill, I will be killed. I can’t run away anymore.”However, his plans unraveled when Jinwoo defeated Thomas effortlessly. With no one left to defend him, Hwang met his end at Jinwoo’s hands, concluding his conflict.

6. Yuri Orloff

Russian Mage-Type S-Ranker

Webnovel Debut : Chapter 151
Abilities: Barrier Magic

Yuri Orloff was a talented mage who monetized his barrier magic, which had essential applications in protecting lives. When an S-Rank Gate emerged in Tokyo, he was contracted for a staggering 10 million dollars a day to shield the city from potential threats during a dungeon break. Tragically, his barrier proved inadequate, leading to his untimely death.

5. Ryuji Goto

Leader of the Draw Sword Guild

Anime Debut: Episode 20
Webnovel Debut : Chapter 106
Abilities: Immense Strength and Enhanced Speed

Regarded as Japan’s top hunter, Goto Ryuji‘s brutal tactics earned him power but left his morality in question. His downfall came during the Jeju Island arc when his ruthless demeanor led him to mistakenly assume superiority over the Ant King. In a moment that defined his hubris, he answered affirmatively to the Ant King’s inquiry about leadership, only to be swiftly dispatched.

4. Jonas

Brazil’s Strongest Hunter

Webnovel Debut : Chapter 199
Abilities: Spiritual Body Manifestation and Ruler’s Authority

Though little is revealed about Jonas, he was to be Brazil’s representative at the International Guild Conference. Unfortunately, he vanished without a trace. A subsequent search yielded no survivors, and his body was later discovered in a river shortly after Christopher Reed’s murder, raising many questions regarding his fate.

3. Go Gunhee

Chairman of the Korean Hunters Association

Anime Debut: Episode 1
Webnovel Debut : Chapter 78
Abilities: Spiritual Body Manifestation, Immense Strength, Ruler’s Authority

Go Gunhee was an honorable S-Rank hunter whose commitment to Korea’s future set him apart from his peers. Despite battling health issues, he managed the Korean Hunters Association with integrity, fostering a friendship with Sung Jinwoo.

During the International Guild Conference in America, Gunhee became a target of a surprise attack orchestrated by Sillad and others. Despite Jinwoo’s desperate efforts to save him through Shadow Exchange, Gunhee succumbed to fatal injuries, demonstrating his unyielding spirit even in death.

2. Christopher Reed

America’s Second-Strongest Hunter

Webnovel Debut : Chapter 176
Abilities: Spiritual Body Manifestation, Ruler’s Authority

A proud and confident hunter, Christopher Reed faced a fateful prophecy that he initially dismissed. Once he recognized the seriousness of the warnings, he took precautions to fortify his defenses. However, when ambushed by powerful enemies including Sillad and Querehsha, he fought valiantly but was ultimately outmatched, highlighting the unpredictable dangers hunters face.

1. Sung Il-Hwan

Sung Jinwoo’s Father

Anime Debut: Episode 15
Webnovel Debut : Chapter 68
Abilities: Spiritual Body Manifestation, Stealth, Ruler’s Authority

After vanishing years before his son, Sung Il-Hwan reappeared when his family needed him most. As he confronted the powerful Monarchs Sillad and Rakan to defend Jinwoo, Il-Hwan displayed courage that ultimately cost him his life. Despite their brief reunion, the physical toll of his powers led to his disintegration, encapsulating the profound themes of familial duty, sacrifice, and regret that permeate the series.

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