This article contains spoilers from the Solo Leveling manhwa.

Summary

Jin-Woo's transformation in Solo Leveling has made him unrecognizable to those around him, including his sister.
Physical changes in Jin-Woo, like increased height and muscle mass, are due to strategic stat investments and a blessing from Kandiaru.
Jin-Woo's newfound self-awareness of his attractiveness in Season 3 is sparked by Cha Hae-In's interest in him, leading to amusing moments.

Most female characters in Solo Leveling can’t take their eyes off the new version of Sung Jin-Woo. At first glance, he looks like a model straight from a magazine instead of a hunter who raids dungeons. He looks completely unrecognizable from his E-rank self, and those around him have definitely noticed his transformation. Yet despite his increased height and toned body, Jin-Woo himself remains largely unaware of how attractive he’s become.

Fans are drawn to Jin-Woo not just for his formidable strength and indomitable spirit but also because of his looks. From nurses and female hunters to even high school girls, many find him attractive, except for himself. But that’s about to change in season 3 of Solo Leveling. Thanks to a certain character and an unexpected event, Jin-Woo is finally expected to become aware of his good looks.

solo leveling how much stronger jin woo post jeju island

Solo Leveling: How Much Stronger Is Jin-Woo Post-Jeju Island?

Sung Jin-Woo's ascent to power continues, but how much stronger has he become after the Jeju Island arc?

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By Cathlyn Melo

Why Does Jin-Woo Look So Different Now?

Jin-Woo’s Glow-Up Explained

At this point in the anime, there’s hardly a trace of Jin-Woo's former self. Gone is the weak and frail E-rank hunter from the pilot episode, as his looks have changed so much. His transformation was noticeable, as the nurses at the hospital, including Song Chi-Yul, Lee Joo-Hee, and even his sister Jin-Ah, were quick to spot the changes. Funny, if Jin-Woo had to unlock his phone using facial recognition, there’s a good chance it wouldn’t recognize him either.

Since Jin-Woo became a player in the system, he has grown taller even after he turned 20. He also gained muscle mass, evident from his well-toned abs and biceps. These physical changes aren’t just the result of his daily training quests but also the ability points he invested into his strength stats. It's as if his body is changing in order to achieve maximum efficiency, perfectly matching the power he’s acquired.

"I know better than anyone how miserable it feels too be weak." —Sung Jin-Woo

Because of Jin-Woo's drastic transformation, Jin-Ah can’t help but wonder just how far exercise and working out can really change someone’s appearance. After all, she notices that Jin-Woo looks buffer and sharper than before. She can’t get used to the current appearance of her brother, in addition to the change in his personality. He used to be easygoing, but he now carries a much more serious and distant presence.

The Effects of Kandiaru’s Blessing

solo leveling system architect jin woo — solo leveling system architect kandiaru

After Jin-Woo completed the requirements to become a player in the system, he received the reward from the Courage of the Weak quest. This reward contains a special enchantment, or a blessing crafted by the system’s architect, Kandiaru, that ensures Jin-Woo always has a healthy and strong body. This blessing may have also contributed to the dramatic changes to his physique and overall appearance.

Kandiaru’s blessing also has two known effects: temporary and permanent. The temporary effect, known as “Will to Recover,” restores all the damage in Jin-Woo's body, whereas the permanent effect, “Longevity,” makes him immune from all kinds of status defects, abnormalities, and toxic substances. In addition, the blessing also speeds up his regeneration abilities when he’s asleep.

It Took a While, But Jin-Woo Will Finally See What the Fangirls See in Season 3

Jin-Woo Is Handsome and He’ll Finally Notice It Too

Solo Leveling: Why Jinwoo Might Return To The Double Dungeon In Season 3 — solo leveling jin woo collage

Solo Leveling season 3 is expected to adapt the story that happens in the Ahjin Guild arc from start to finish. This means that fans will finally be able to witness a self-conscious Jin-Woo checking his appearance in the mirror. This scene from the manhwa shows a side of Jin-Woo that’s very different from his usual reserved personality, which could confuse fans. Why would he behave like this? Cha Hae-In. It’s because of her presence that Jin-Woo begins to notice and become conscious of his own attractiveness.

In the middle of the Ahjin Guild story arc, shortly after Cha Hae-In reveals her interest in Jin-Woo, the strongest hunter will face the mirror and evaluate his appearance. For the first time, he will truly notice how attractive he has become and how his looks have changed over time. He even starts to believe that Cha Hae-In’s feelings for him might be because of his newfound good looks.

"Who are you and what have you done with the real Sung Jin-Woo?" —Sung Jin-Ah to Jin-Woo

The fun doesn't stop there, as Jin-Woo goes on and asks Jin-Ah to rate his looks. Of course, Jin-Ah will tease her brother, saying he has zero appeal, and he looks like a bum, despite his undeniable charisma. This will be the only moment in Solo Leveling when the strongest hunter becomes extra conscious of his looks. In short, it’s Cha Hae-In who sparks Jin-Woo’s newfound self-awareness.

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