The world of live-action adaptations is bracing for one of its most ambitious projects yet, as the globally renowned webtoon and web novel Solo Leveling prepares for its transition to the television screen.
Adding to the immense hype surrounding the production, recent industry reports have suggested a high-profile casting move that would see a beloved on-screen pairing reunite.
On May 13, 2026, Korean media outlets began reporting that actress Kang Mina has been cast in the upcoming drama, potentially joining the previously rumored lead, Byeon Woo-seok.
Following the surge of reports, Kang Mina’s management agency, Story J Company, provided a brief and cautious response to the media.
Addressing the speculation regarding her participation in the project, a representative stated,
“It is true that Kang Mina has received an offer to star in the live-action ‘Solo Leveling’ and is currently reviewing it.”
While this stop-short of a full confirmation is standard for high-budget productions in their early stages, the news has already sent shockwaves through the fandom, particularly for those hoping to see her share the frame with Byeon Woo-seok once again.
Reconnecting After “Moonshine”: The Power of On-Screen Chemistry
One of the most compelling aspects of this casting news is the potential reunion between Kang Mina and Byeon Woo-seok.
The two actors previously displayed remarkable chemistry in the 2021 KBS2 historical drama Moonshine (also known as When Flowers Bloom, I Think of the Moon).
In that series, Kang Mina played the spirited Han Ae-jin, while Byeon Woo-seok portrayed the rebellious Crown Prince Lee Pyo.
Their interactions were a highlight for many viewers, and the prospect of them working together in a vastly different genre- modern fantasy action- has created significant buzz.
Since their collaboration in Moonshine, both actors have seen their careers skyrocket. Byeon Woo-seok has recently achieved “icon” status following his transformative performance in the 2024 hit Lovely Runner, making him one of the most sought-after actors in Asia.
Meanwhile, Kang Mina has successfully transitioned from her idol roots in I.O.I and gugudan to become a respected actress with a diverse portfolio, including roles in Hotel Del Luna, Café Minamdang, and the recent Welcome to Samdal-ri.
If she accepts the role in Solo Leveling, it will mark her most significant foray into the “action-fantasy” blockbuster territory, further cementing her status as a versatile leading lady.
Bringing a Global Phenomenon to Life: The “Solo Leveling” Challenge
The live-action adaptation of Solo Leveling carries immense pressure, given the massive global following of the original work.
Originally a web novel by Chugong and later a world-famous webtoon illustrated by the late Jang Sung-rak (DUBU), the story follows Sung Jin-woo, a “World’s Weakest Hunter” who gains the unique ability to level up through a mysterious program called the System.
The adaptation is expected to require top-tier visual effects and high-octane choreography to do justice to the source material’s intricate world-building and intense battle sequences.
While specific character details for Kang Mina have not been officially disclosed, fans are already speculating on which pivotal role she might inhabit.
Whether she portrays a high-ranking hunter, a key member of the Hunter’s Association, or a character central to the protagonist’s emotional journey, her involvement adds a layer of prestige to the production.
The project is reportedly being helmed by a team dedicated to maintaining the “spirit of the original,” while adapting the narrative for a live-action format that appeals to both hardcore fans and general audiences.
As the production team moves forward with casting and pre-production, the industry remains focused on the final lineup.
While Story J Company maintains that “nothing has been confirmed yet,” the possibility of Kang Mina and Byeon Woo-seok leading such a monumental project has set expectations at an all-time high.
For Kang Mina, Solo Leveling represents an opportunity to showcase her growth on a global stage, proving that she is ready to navigate the complex and thrilling world of S-rank hunters and shadow monarchs.
Regardless of the final outcome, the sheer scale of the project ensures that it will remain the most talked-about adaptation of the year.