The original author of Solo Leveling, Chugongrecently explained that the spin-off series Solo Leveling: Ragnarok It should not be considered an official continuation of the main story. As stated in an interview with Litersthe writer defined the work as “a spin-off created by fanservice.”
Ragnarok was an alternate history
“Ragnarok was a spin-off created for fanservice. I was curious to see how another author would write Solo Leveling”said Chugong, according to a translation shared by the user @SoloLevelingGuy. The web novel, written by Daulconcluded in July 2025 with a total of 357 chapters and continued to Sung Suhoson of Sung Jinwoofacing a new threat. Its adaptation to the webtoon format continues in publication.
A clarification on the story canon
Chugong also stated that Ragnarok belongs to the universe of Solo Levelingbut not as an official part of the main line. “This story is part of the universe, but not a direct continuation of the main plot. It is more of an alternate version of events, like a parallel universe,” he explained. The author also hinted at his intention to write a official sequel in the future: “I'm considering writing a sequel myself.”
The future of the franchise
In a later message, Daul acknowledged that his work was conceived as an alternate story within the world created by Chugong. “The legend of the Lord of Shadows, Sung Jinwoo, continues. And perhaps one day, in another form, he will return again,” he wrote. He also expressed that his role was that of a “guardian” of the franchise, stating that he wrote with respect for the author's original vision.
Solo Leveling: Ragnarok was announced by kakao in April 2023, with its first chapters published in KakaoPage that same month. Its version in webtoon format debuted on October 1, 2024 with great initial reception.
Solo Leveling Universe Expansion
The franchise will continue with several projects in development, including an adaptation live-action produced by Netflix and starring Byeon Woo-seok. Furthermore, the third season of anime is in production, although a release date has not yet been announced.
Do you think the future sequel written by Chugong will resume the story of Sung Jinwoo or will explore a new arc within the universe of Solo Leveling?
