The Rise of Solo Leveling: Why Webtoons are Taking Over Modern Anime
Grounded AI Biographer
June 5, 2026 • 5 min read
For decades, the anime industry relied almost exclusively on Japanese manga and light novels for its source material. However, a seismic shift has been occurring in the global entertainment landscape. The massive adaptation of Chugong's 'Solo Leveling' (illustrated by the late DUBU of Redice Studio) has cemented a new era: the age of webtoon-to-anime adaptations. What started as a niche digital comic medium in South Korea is now driving the next evolution of global animation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Solo Leveling a manga or a webtoon?
Solo Leveling is originally a South Korean web novel written by Chugong, which was later adapted into a webtoon (manhwa) illustrated by DUBU of Redice Studio.
Why are webtoon adaptations becoming more popular in anime?
Webtoons offer full-color, digitally native formatting, pre-existing massive global fanbases, and fresh storytelling tropes (like progression fantasy and system-based worlds) that appeal strongly to modern gaming and anime culture.
Will there be a Season 2 of the Solo Leveling anime?
Yes, Season 2 of Solo Leveling, subtitled 'Arise from the Shadow', has been officially confirmed and is highly anticipated by fans worldwide.