“Shadows Rise Again” season 2 of Solo Leveling was shown at Anime Expo 2024, revealing the highly anticipated trailer for anime community. The record-breaking manhwa adaptation, based on the web novel by Chugong, took the anime scene by storm during its January-March 2024 run.

Produced by the acclaimed A-1 Pictures, the trailer offers a tantalizing glimpse into the next chapter of Sung Jinwoo’s journey, the once-weak Hunter who rose to prominence through sheer will and the power of a mysterious program called The System.
Solo Leveling: A Web Novel
Solo Leveling, based on the web novel by Chugong and the late artist DUBU (REDICE Studio), took the world by storm. Its webtoon adaptation, launched on webtoon services in March 2018, quickly amassed a dedicated global fanbase. The manhwa’s captivating blend of action, fantasy, and a compelling underdog narrative resonated with readers worldwide.
Solo Leveling’s unique concept – a seemingly ordinary man awakening to extraordinary abilities in a world threatened by monstrous creatures – offered a refreshing take on the fantasy genre. The series’ stunning artwork, depicting epic battles and the ever-evolving power of Sung Jinwoo, further solidified its place among must-read webtoons.
The anime adaptation, produced by the acclaimed A-1 Pictures, aired from January to March 2024, shattering viewership records on streaming platform Crunchyroll. Solo Leveling’s anime debut not only faithfully captured the essence of the webtoon but also introduced the captivating world of Sung Jinwoo to a whole new generation of fans, solidifying Solo Leveling’s place as a modern anime phenomenon.
“Shadows Rise Again”: A Familiar Face, a Bigger Threat
The trailer opens with a somber scene, reminding viewers of Jinwoo’s past struggles as a low-ranked Hunter. A voiceover, likely Jinwoo himself, declares, “I won’t survive like this. I have to become stronger!” This sets the stage for a montage of intense training, showcasing Jinwoo honing his skills and pushing his limits. The animation retains the first season’s quality, with fluid fight sequences and detailed character designs.

We then see a glimpse of Jinwoo’s loyal shadow army, their menacing figures a stark contrast to his determined expression. This hints at a potential expansion of Jinwoo’s power and the growing influence of his shadowy companions.

The short clip, accompanied by a special track composed by the legendary Hiroyuki Sawano, sets the stage for an epic showdown. While the official release date remains a mystery, the trailer promises to take viewers deeper into the world Sung Jinwoo carved for himself through sheer determination and a mysterious program called “The System.”
Hiroyuki Sawano’s Music Sets the Stage for Epic Battles
Adding to the trailer’s intrigue is the electrifying soundtrack. Renowned composer Hiroyuki Sawano, whose work on Attack on Titan and Kill la Kill has become synonymous with heart-pounding action, contributes a new track titled “4eVR.” The music perfectly complements the fast-paced visuals.

Soaring orchestral arrangements build anticipation during quieter moments, while pulsating electronic beats erupt during action sequences, creating a sense of urgency and power. Sawano’s signature use of layered melodies and chanting vocals further elevates the emotional impact of the trailer, leaving viewers eager to experience the full score in the context of the anime.
However, “4eVR” introduces a more pronounced use of electronic beats, creating a faster-paced and more urgent soundscape. This shift could reflect the increased power of Sung Jinwoo’s opponents, hinting at battles that transcend the desperate scrambles for survival he faced earlier.
A Release Date Yet to be Unveiled
While the trailer ignited a firestorm of excitement, it left one crucial detail shrouded in mystery: the release date. A-1 Pictures remained tight-lipped on the matter, simply stating that Season 2 is “coming soon.” This lack of a concrete release date has fueled speculation among fans.

Some theorize a late 2024 release, while others hold out hope for a surprise early 2025 premiere. Regardless of the exact date, one thing is certain: the wait will only heighten anticipation for what promises to be an epic continuation of the Solo Leveling saga.
The strategic decision to withhold the release date can also be viewed as a marketing tactic. By keeping fans on the edge of their seats, A-1 Pictures ensures that Solo Leveling Season 2 remains at the forefront of anime discussions. This strategy not only maintains the hype but also allows the studio to strategically place the release date to maximize viewership.