In the epic conclusion of Solo Leveling, Sung Jin Woo’s journey takes a surprising turn as he faces the Monarch of Destruction, Antares, in a battle that leaves fans both satisfied and conflicted.
The webtoon, which captivated readers with its intense action and stunning artwork, wrapped up after 179 chapters, prompting many to question Sung Jin Woo’s decision to go back in time using the Cup of Reincarnation.
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Sung Jin Woo’s Anticlimactic Battle With Antares
The final showdown between Sung Jin Woo and Antares was built up with the promise of a fierce battle between two formidable Monarchs.
Utilizing Kamish’s rune stone, Jin Woo employed the Dragon’s Fearsome Roar to draw Antares to a deserted island in Japan.
Monarch against Monarch, shadow army against a dragon army – the stage was set for an intense confrontation.
While the battle initially showcased Jin Woo’s resilience and determination, the turning point came when Antares proposed an alliance to destroy the Rulers.
Jin Woo, ever astute, saw through the deception and continued the fight.
However, the climax was marred by the sudden appearance of the Rulers, who delivered a deus ex machina moment by swiftly eliminating Antares with a single blow.
This unexpected intervention left fans questioning the significance of Jin Woo’s efforts and contributed to the mixed feelings surrounding the finale.
The Unsettling Use of Time Travel
One of the primary sources of contention in the Solo Leveling ending is Sung Jin Woo’s decision to use the Cup of Reincarnation.
Despite the Rulers expressing gratitude for saving humankind, Jin Woo found himself dissatisfied.
The eradication of Antares did little to ease the emotional toll of losing loved ones, including his father and Adam.
In a classic shonen anime fashion, Jin Woo chose to go back in time to prevent these losses.
The Cup of Reincarnation not only reversed time but also erased Jin Woo from the memories of those he had fought alongside.
This bittersweet twist left Jin Woo in a vulnerable position, reunited with his family but stripped of the recognition for his sacrifices.
The question arises – why did Sung Jin Woo choose to undo his heroic deeds and return to his school days?
The Rulers’ Fear and Controversial Choices
Two years passed in the real world, during which Jin Woo fought for an astonishing 27 years in the dimensional gap.
His efforts not only saved humankind but also preserved the Rulers from the growing threat of the Monarchs.
However, instead of expressing gratitude, the Rulers, fueled by fear, presented Jin Woo with a dilemma – leave Earth or face being sealed away.
This decision by the Rulers draws parallels to the actions of the Monarchs who sought to eliminate Ashborn due to their fear of overwhelming power.
The hypocrisy of the Rulers in attempting to control Jin Woo raises questions about their moral standing and whether they are any different from the forces they opposed.
Also Read: What is the statue of God in solo leveling?
Jin Woo’s Existential Crisis and the Quest for Purpose
The Cup of Reincarnation not only altered the course of time but also left Jin Woo questioning his existence.
As he re-entered his school days, his memories intact while erased from others’, Jin Woo grappled with the void left by his erased heroic narrative.
The sense of vulnerability in his monologue reveals a desire for normalcy and a break from the relentless battles.
Throughout Solo Leveling, Jin Woo’s strength and growth were driven by a clear purpose – to protect everyone.
However, with the eradication of the Monarchs and the Rulers’ controversial choices, Jin Woo found himself at a crossroads.
Was he still needed? Did he require a grand, heroic reason to continue, or could the simple desire to live with loved ones be reason enough?
Solo Leveling: Ragnarok and the Legacy Continuation
In April 2023, Solo Leveling surprised fans with the release of a spinoff series, Solo Leveling: Ragnarok.
This new installment follows the adventures of Jin Woo’s son, Sung Suho, whose powers were sealed by his father.
As the anime adaptation gains popularity, fans anticipate potential changes to the controversial original ending.
While Solo Leveling: Ragnarok offers a fresh perspective on the legacy, it remains to be seen if the anime adaptation will diverge from the manhwa’s conclusion.
The hope among fans for a different ending raises intriguing possibilities for the continuation of Jin Woo’s story.
In conclusion, the ending of Solo Leveling raises numerous questions about Sung Jin Woo’s motivations, the role of time travel, and the moral ambiguity of the Rulers.
The controversies surrounding the finale add layers to the narrative, leaving fans eager to explore the unfolding legacy in Solo Leveling: Ragnarok and the anime adaptation.
As Sung Jin Woo grapples with his choices and the consequences of rewriting history, the Solo Leveling saga continues to captivate audiences with its intricate storytelling and dynamic characters.
