Fans of the popular anime series Solo Leveling are buzzing with excitement following the release of a new shadow visual for the second season, subtitled Arise from the Shadow. The highly anticipated continuation first premiered in Japan on January 4, 2025, and is set to run for 13 episodes, promising ample action and intrigue for viewers.
To coincide with the launch, the Japanese Aniplex YouTube channel has also posted the 16th installment of the new pick up battle video series, featuring protagonist Jinwoo's dynamic fight against Karlargan. This engaging content serves to ramp up interest as the new season gets underway.
Returning to take the helm for Solo Leveling Season 2 are several key staff members from the initial season. Director Shunsuke Nakashige, series screenwriter Noboru Kimura, character designer Tomoko Sudo, sub-character designer Chiaki Kozumi, and action director Yoshihiro Kanno all bring their talents back to the project, ensuring the series maintains the quality fans have come to expect. Hirotaka Tokuda, known for his work on monster design, will also contribute to the creative team. The animation production is once again handled by A-1 Pictures.
The voice cast is equally impressive, showcasing familiar talent from the first season. Taito Ban reprises his role as Jinwoo, joined by Reina Ueda as Cha Hae-in, Daisuke Hirakawa as Choi Jong-in, Hiroki Tochi as Baek Yun-ho, and many others. This returning lineup aims to keep the beloved characters brought to life with the same enthusiasm and depth as before.
Adding to the star-studded nature of the season is the exciting announcement of Latin music icon J Balvin joining the English and Spanish dub casts. Known for his chart-topping collaborations with artists like Beyoncé, Bad Bunny, and Cardi B, Balvin is expected to bring broad appeal to the anime. "I’m beyond thrilled to join the cast of Solo Leveling,” Balvin expressed, referring to the series as one he has long admired. His involvement marks a significant step toward enhancing the program's international presence and recognition.
Fans also have their eyes set on the release schedule for the second season, marked by new episodes set to drop weekly every Saturday on Crunchyroll. The schedule includes:
- Episode 1 – You Aren’t E-rank, Are You – January 4, 2025
- Episode 2 – I Suppose You Aren’t Aware – January 11, 2025
- Episode 3 – Still A Long Way to Go – January 18, 2025
- Episode 4 – January 25, 2025
- Episode 5 – February 1, 2025
- Episode 6 – February 8, 2025
- Episode 7 – February 15, 2025
- Episode 8 – February 22, 2025
- Episode 9 – March 1, 2025
- Episode 10 – March 8, 2025
- Episode 11 – March 15, 2025
- Episode 12 – March 22, 2025
- Episode 13 – March 29, 2025
Like the first season, this installment of Solo Leveling is expected to consist of 13 episodes, offering exciting developments and challenges for the beloved characters. The franchise is rooted in the South Korean web novel written by Chugong and initially illustrated by the late Dubu, with the latter's incredible work paving the way for the webtoon adaptation released thereafter.
Notably, the Solo Leveling series continues to resonate with global audiences, as illustrated by its streaming via platforms like Crunchyroll, bilibili, and Netflix. The show’s narrative revolves around the story of Sung Jinwoo, formerly known as "The Weakest Hunter of All Mankind," who gains extraordinary abilities and transforms by completing job-change quests and commanding armies of shadows.
With its thrilling story, rich character development, and new celebrity involvement, Solo Leveling is set to cement its status as not just another anime, but as major player within the broader entertainment industry. The blend of local talent with globally recognized figures demonstrates this series reaching audiences far beyond its originating country.