Overview
- In the acclaimed series Solo Leveling, viewers are introduced to Sung II-Hwan, an S-Rank Hunter and the father of protagonist Sung Jin-Woo.
- After being trapped in a dungeon for ten years, Sung II-Hwan was rescued by the Rulers.
- Upon his return, he chose not to fulfill the request to eliminate the Shadow Monarch.
Table of Contents
- Sung II-Hwan: Korea’s First S-Rank Hunter
- Sung II-Hwan’s Disappearance During a Raid
- Sung II-Hwan’s Return to Fulfill His Bargain
- The Role of Jin-Woo’s Father in Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling Season 2 continues to impress fans with consistent high-quality episodes. While some viewers express dissatisfaction over certain narrative adjustments that rush the storyline, these concerns may be alleviated if the action-packed sequences maintain their intensity.
The growing interest in Jin-Woo has led to the introduction of formidable S-Rank Hunters, including the notable Sung II-Hwan. His prowess was showcased during the third episode where he notably defeated Hwang Dongsoo, capturing the attention of the audience. However, fans are particularly intrigued by the connection between Sung II-Hwan and his son, Sung Jin-Woo.
Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers for the Solo Leveling manhwa.
Sung II-Hwan: Korea’s First S-Rank Hunter
The Strongest Hunter After Jin-Woo
Sung II-Hwan was initially a dedicated firefighter, drawn to the profession out of a desire to save lives. His life took a dramatic turn after he fell in love with Park Kyung-Hye, with whom he had two children, Sung Jin-Woo and Jinah. The arrival of the Gates heralded a new era, prompting II-Hwan to abandon his career to confront the ever-growing threats as a Hunter, making history as Korea’s first S-Rank Hunter.
Despite this prestigious title, II-Hwan faced significant challenges. During a time devoid of a Hunter Association or recognition system, his status went unnoticed, leaving him without the financial rewards typically associated with S-Rank Hunters. This dire situation forced his son, Jin-Woo, to risk his own life to fund their family’s survival following II-Hwan’s mysterious disappearance.
Sung II-Hwan’s Disappearance During a Raid
Trapped Inside the Dungeon for a Decade
Sung II-Hwan’s career as a Hunter involved numerous dungeon raids; however, one particular raid changed his life forever. About ten years prior to the current storyline, Sung II-Hwan became trapped within a dungeon, unable to escape despite his formidable abilities. The lack of assistance from the outside world led many to assume that he had perished.
Although II-Hwan vanquished countless monsters, the struggle against starvation loomed large. Just as he was nearing death, the Rulers intervened, offering their powers on the condition that he would eliminate the new Shadow Monarch. Years later, he emerged in a dungeon in America, much to the shock of the Hunters, who had never encountered a human within a dungeon before.
Because of his long isolation, II-Hwan was perceived as a supernatural being rather than a fellow Hunter. Consequently, Hwang Dongsoo was summoned to establish communication with him. Their encounter quickly escalated into a confrontation, which ended with II-Hwan decisively overpowering Hwang Dongsoo.
Sung II-Hwan’s Return to Fulfill His Bargain
The Rulers’ Order to Kill His Son
Upon his return, the Rulers opened an S-Rank gate in Japan, revealing that II-Hwan’s task was to slay the new Shadow Monarch. It quickly became apparent that this Monarch was none other than his son, Jin-Woo. Unsurprisingly, II-Hwan refused to harm his own child. Instead of incurring wrath from the Rulers for his disobedience, they were compelled to shift their strategy when they witnessed Jin-Woo defeat Legia, thereby acknowledging him as an ally.
This development led the Rulers to instruct II-Hwan to protect Jin-Woo, a role he embraced as he silently observed his son’s journey.
The Role of Jin-Woo’s Father in Solo Leveling
An Important Ally for Sung Jin-Woo
Throughout the Monarchs War Arc, Sung II-Hwan’s importance will become even more pronounced. While he observes Jin-Woo confront formidable foes, he ultimately steps in during critical moments, especially when Jin-Woo faces Querehsha and Rakan.
Although Jin-Woo is momentarily incapacitated, it is witnessed that II-Hwan staves off Rakan and Sillad, risking everything to give his son a fighting chance. Tragically, II-Hwan loses an arm in this encounter and is later forced to retreat.
The emotional reunion arrives as Jin-Woo regains consciousness and learns the truth about his father’s fate. However, the moment is fleeting, as II-Hwan’s body begins to dissipate into light following their poignant exchange.
“I’m sorry… that I couldn’t be a great father,” II-Hwan tells Jin-Woo, encapsulating the depth of their bond.
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