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Behind the spectacular panels of Solo Leveling lies a genius artist: Jang Sung-rak, known by the pseudonym DUBU. He is the one who transformed Chugong's novel into one of the most admired webtoons in the world. Having passed away in 2022, he leaves behind a visual body of work that continues to move millions of readers. A tribute to the man whose art brought Sung Jin-Woo to life.
Who is Dubu (Jang Sung-rak)?
Jang Sung-rak, born in 1981 in South Korea, was a webtoon artist and illustrator. Under the pen name DUBU, he collaborated within REDICE Studio, which specializes in adapting novels into digital comics. It was in this capacity that he was entrusted with the graphic adaptation of Solo Leveling.
From novel to webtoon: his decisive role
Originally, Solo Leveling is a web-novel written by Chugong. The text met with great success, but it was the webtoon adaptation, launched in 2018, that propelled the work into another dimension. Dubu's style—dynamic anatomies, energetic layouts, and striking lighting effects—rendered the battles visceral and the hero's ascent truly spectacular.
To better understand the difference between these formats, read Solo Leveling's manhwa and light novel and our feature on the creation of Solo Leveling.
A style that defined the identity of Solo Leveling
What is striking about Dubu is his ability to give characters a physical presence: the steel gaze of Sung Jin-Woo, the aura of the shadows, the sheer scale of the Monarchs. Many readers first fell in love with the series for its visuals. It is this strong graphic identity that the anime adapted by A-1 Pictures sought to honor.
A passing that shook the fandom
In July 2022, Jang Sung-rak passed away at the age of 37, due to health issues. The news caused a worldwide wave of emotion: tributes from authors, studios, and fans honored the legacy of an artist who left too soon. His work on Solo Leveling remains his most beautiful imprint.
His legacy: a work that outlives him
Thanks to Dubu, Solo Leveling became a global phenomenon, adapted into anime, games, and merchandise. Every poster, every figurine carries a bit of his touch. To dive back into the universe he magnified, explore the complete guide to the Solo Leveling universe and all the characters.
Pay tribute to his art on your walls:
See Solo Leveling posters →Frequently Asked Questions about Dubu
Who drew the Solo Leveling webtoon?
The webtoon was illustrated by Jang Sung-rak, known by the pseudonym DUBU, within REDICE Studio.
What is the difference between Chugong and Dubu?
Chugong is the author of the original novel; Dubu (Jang Sung-rak) is the illustrator who adapted this novel into a webtoon.
When did Jang Sung-rak pass away?
Jang Sung-rak (DUBU) passed away in July 2022, at the age of 37, due to health issues.
Read also: His legacy continues on screen: discover the story of the Solo Leveling anime adaptation.
