The Solo Leveling franchise has just dropped a strikingly cool official promotional video, quite literally.
Released on August 10, 2026, the latest preview highlights the returning live-action theatrical experience, Solo Leveling on ICE. Running in South Korea from August 7 through 17, the production reimagines Sung Jinwoo’s journey as a theatrical ice show that merges the high-octane energy of the popular anime with the elegance of competitive figure skating.
The footage provides a dynamic look at the production’s skating routines, practical stage effects, and imaginative costumes that adapt the distinct designs of Jinwoo and his allies into sleek, rink-ready attire.
Solo Leveling on ICE Unveils Epic New Trailer Celebrating the Show’s Main Debut
This marks the second iteration of Solo Leveling on ICE, following its initial run late last year. Bumping up the scale for its return, the production features a completely revamped lineup. World figure skating silver medalist Cha Junhwan takes over the lead role of Sung Jinwoo, succeeding K-pop idols Kim Jinhwan and Hoya, who shared the part during the debut performances.
Junhwan is joined on the ice by Kim Yerim as Cha Haein, Lee Sihyung as Igris, Kim Chaeyeon as Sung Jinah, and Choi Woohyuk as Yoo Jinho. As highlighted in the promo, the show utilizes striking visual effects to recreate some of Jinwoo’s most memorable battles from the manhwa and anime.
Among the standout practical elements are a massive animatronic Cerberus staging Jinwoo’s iconic encounter prior to the Demon Castle, a fiery torch-dancing routine mimicking Cho Jongin’s pyro-magic, and Cha Haein descending from the overhead riggings on ribbons to properly channel her “The Dancer” moniker.
Image via Big Picture Production
Image via Big Picture Production
Early responses praise Junhwan’s commanding stage presence, a strength likely fueled by his personal connection to the protagonist. “He closely resembles myself,” Junhwan noted in an interview with Seoul Economic Daily, pointing out how both have continuously faced challenges and personal growth.
Beyond acting, Junhwan actively contributed behind the scenes by assisting with the ice choreography. While ice-skating adaptations might not appeal to every fan, the production serves as yet another avenue expanding the franchise’s cultural footprint, introducing mainstream audiences to Sung Jinwoo’s universe.
Solo Leveling Is Regaining Momentum 1 Year After Its Groundbreaking Season 2
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Image by Brett Cardaro
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KakaoPage
Solo Leveling on ICE isn’t the sole live-action interpretation of Chugong’s original light novels currently in development. A live-action Netflix K-drama is also in the works, with principal photography reportedly kicking off back in April.
Though official details regarding the Netflix adaptation remain sparse, the main cast is confirmed to feature Byeon Wooseok as Sung Jinwoo, Han Sohee as Cha Haein, and Kang You-seok as Yoo Jinho. Han Sohee recently shared a glimpse on Instagram sporting Cha Haein’s trademark short blonde haircut, drawing widespread praise from fans for nailing the character’s aesthetic.
Meanwhile, the animated series is gearing up for the release of Solo Leveling: Beyond the System next year, while the English translation of the Solo Leveling: Ragnarok light novel recently concluded its scheduled hiatus. Between stage, screen, and print, momentum for the franchise is surging like never before.
- Release Date
- 2024 – 2025
- Network
- Tokyo MX, Gunma TV, BS11, Tochigi TV
- Directors
- Tatsuya Sasaki, Toru Hamasaki
- Writers
- Shigeru Murakoshi, Shingo Irie, Fuka Ishii
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Genta Nakamura
Yoo Jin-ho