Solo Leveling Wins Anime of the Year, But Fans Still Question Sung Jinwoo's Shallow Development
June 20, 2025
Solo Leveling won Crunchyroll's Anime of the Year, but many fans and critics argue the show’s biggest flaw is Sung Jinwoo’s lack of emotional depth and character development, despite its stellar animation and action 🔥 Solo Leveling Crowned Anime of the Year – But Here's the Problem Fans Can't Ignore!
Despite its massive success and Anime of the Year win at Crunchyroll’s 2025 Awards, Solo Leveling is under fire for one glaring issue: Sung Jinwoo’s weak characterization.
📈 While the series boasts record-breaking episodes and some of the best animated action scenes in recent years, many fans and critics feel Solo Leveling lacks emotional weight. The issue? Jinwoo's evolution from weak hunter to Shadow Monarch feels rushed and emotionally hollow.
🧍♂️ He has minimal emotional bonds, barely interacts meaningfully with his family, and shows little introspection after gaining immense power. His relationships, like with Cha Hae-In or Yoo Jinho, feel underdeveloped or one-sided.
👀 Critics say Jinwoo’s battles, while flashy, lack stakes because viewers never truly know what’s at stake for him. Even powerful moments like his job-change quest don't fully explore the psychological transformation he undergoes.
🎭 Compared to emotionally rich characters in anime like Berserk, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, or Evangelion, Jinwoo remains a character of untapped potential.
💬 Do you agree with the criticism, or do you think Jinwoo is exactly the protagonist Solo Leveling needs?