In Solo Leveling, protagonist Sung Jinwoo is known for his rise from a weak hunter to the most powerful being in existence. While the series focuses heavily on action and Jinwoo’s growth, it also had a romance sub-plot between Jinwoo and Cha Hae-In. Despite that official plot, however, the original plan for the series was to have a relationship between Jinwoo and healer Joohee. According to series author Chugong, Jinwoo and Joohee’s connection was once intended to develop into something more, but their circumstances ultimately tore them apart.

Chugong confirmed on a Korean forum, via u/Death_Usagi on Reddit, that Jinwoo had genuine feelings for Joohee at one point. However, Joohee’s mental state and inability to adapt to the violent, unforgiving world Jinwoo inhabited ultimately held their romance back. Despite Jinwoo’s affection, he knew Joohee could not handle the constant danger and darkness surrounding him, so he made the difficult decision to let her go.

Joohee’s Fragile Nature Made Romance Impossible

Sung Jinwoo Is To Powerful for Joohee to be a Possible Love Interest Anymore

One of the biggest reasons why Jinwoo and Joohee could not be together was Joohee’s fragile mental state. Chugong explained that Joohee was not built for the chaotic, merciless world of hunters and monsters. Her inability to cope with the psychological toll of combat made it impossible for her to stay by Jinwoo’s side. She represented the ordinary people who were swept into the world of hunters despite not being suited for it.

Additionally, Jinwoo’s path toward power only widened the gap between them. As Jinwoo grew stronger, his lifestyle became increasingly dangerous and distant from anything resembling normality. Even though Jinwoo cared deeply for Joohee, he knew pursuing a relationship would only put her in harm’s way. In the end, he chose her safety over his own desires.

A "What If" Scenario Remains Open

Chugong is Open to Writing An Alternate Universe Spin-Off With Jinwoo and Joohee

Although Jinwoo and Joohee's relationship never blossomed, Chugong itted he has considered writing a "What If" story exploring a different outcome. In this alternate scenario, Joohee would overcome her mental struggles and find the strength to stay with Jinwoo despite his increasingly perilous journey. However, this possibility remains just a hypothetical. By the end of Solo Leveling, Jinwoo’s journey successfully restored the world to normalcy, allowing Joohee to return to her peaceful life.

Jinwoo took solace in the fact that she could live a happy, uneventful life free from the horrors of the hunter world. While Chugong intended to convey this message in the original story, he acknowledged that his execution may not have fully communicated it to readers. Ultimately, Jinwoo’s decision to let Joohee go stemmed from his desire to protect her from a world she could never thrive in. Their near-romance adds a bittersweet layer to Jinwoo’s character, highlighting the sacrifices he had to make along the way.

Source: u/Death_Usagi/Reddit