5 ‘Solo Leveling’ Characters Who Deserved So Much Better
The article argues that *Solo Leveling*’s focus on Sung Jin-woo’s rapid rise to power leaves some promising supporting characters underdeveloped or short-lived. It says this does not undermine the series’ appeal as a flashy power fantasy, but can make certain characters’ stories feel cut short.
It highlights five characters, including demon princess Esil, National Level Hunter Christopher Reed and B-Rank healer Lee Joohee. Esil gains a larger role in the sequel *Solo Leveling: Ragnarok*, while Reed dies after a brief showcase of his abilities and is killed again in the revised timeline. The article also names Liu Zhigang and another character among those it believes deserved more development.
In short
- Jin-woo’s rise leaves some supporting characters behind.
- Esil gains more depth in the sequel.
- Christopher Reed’s brief story ends in repeated deaths.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A story centred on Jin-woo’s rapid ascent can make supporting characters feel like glimpses of larger, more interesting lives. Giving figures such as Esil, Christopher Reed and Lee Joohee more time could deepen the world, make their choices and losses resonate, and give the series’ conflicts more emotional weight.
The case against
The series’ narrow focus is a deliberate strength: keeping attention on Jin-woo sustains its pace and delivers the concentrated power fantasy readers came for. Brief appearances or early exits can still serve that story, while expanding every promising character risks diluting its momentum; some readers may also welcome later opportunities, such as Esil’s role in the sequel, without expecting equal development for the whole cast.