The Solo Leveling narrative introduces a myriad of adversaries who challenge Sung Jin-Woo and his objectives. At the apex of these adversaries stand the Monarchs, serving as the primary foes in the series.
The narrative portrays Sung Jin-Woo and his allies swiftly overcoming several Monarchs due to their insertion into the storyline. Despite the immense power wielded by Monarchs in the world of Solo Leveling, fans often argue that many of these formidable beings failed to unleash their complete prowess before meeting their demise in the plot. This misconception led to the underestimation of numerous Monarchs, with some being notably overlooked.
6 Tarnak, King Of Monstrous Humanoids
Monarch Of Iron Body
Among the Monarchs, Tarnak resembled humans the most, yet his deep-rooted loathing and contempt for them were palpable. Upon learning that a human ascended as the new Shadow Monarch, Tarnak exhibited visible disgust. Despite his disdain for humans, Tarnak refrained from challenging Ashborn's successor without Antares by his side.
When Sillard sought assistance from other Monarchs to eliminate Sung Jin-Woo, Tarnak opted out initially. However, upon Antares's availability for an assault on Sung Jin-Woo and the human realm, Tarnak allied with Antares, materializing on Earth. Ultimately, a collective effort from Thomas Andre, Beru, and Bellion led to his demise.
5 Yogumunt, King Of Demonic Specters
Monarch Of Transfiguration
Like Tarnak, the Monarch of Transfiguration, Yogumunt, harbored disdain for humanity, viewing them as an inferior race. Despite his animosity towards humans, Yogumunt refrained from participating in Sillard's plan to attack Sung Jin-Woo, fearing a fate similar to Baran, the White Flames Monarch.
Though Yogumunt's presence was not extensively highlighted in the series, the Solo Leveling light novel bestowed upon him the title of the 'Greatest Sorcerer in the Chaos World,' underscoring his esteemed magical prowess. Yogumunt showcased his power by standing alongside Antares as he summoned the Dragon army through massive portals. Sung Jin-Woo, utilizing the Cup of Reincarnation, systematically vanquished each Monarch, including Yogumunt, despite initial setbacks.
4 Baran, King Of Demons
Monarch Of White Flames
Often regarded as the weakest among the Monarchs in Solo Leveling, Baran was defeated by Sung Jin-Woo before acquiring Ashborn's powers. However, the Baran defeated by Sung Jin-Woo was a mere replica created by the Architect to serve as the final adversary in the demon's castle, lacking the true might of the Monarch of White Flames.
In a past confrontation, as Ashborn grew more formidable, Antares dispatched Baran and Rakan to eliminate him. Despite their failed mission, Baran's prowess was speculated to be on par with Rakan. During the clash with Ashborn, Baran met a grisly end, unable to escape the relentless assault.
3 Querehsha, Queen Of Insects
Monarch Of Plague
Monarchs like Querehsha are perceived as significantly mightier than S-rank hunters, accentuating the vast power gap between them. Forming an alliance with Rakan and Sillard to confront Sung Jin-Woo, Querehsha engaged in a formidable showdown. Despite Beru's valiant efforts to stall Querehsha, the Queen of Insects effortlessly overpowered him.
Beru, a potent familiar, exhibited resilience in battle; however, Querehsha swiftly subdued him bare-handed. Noteworthy is Querehsha's swift regeneration when severed by Jinwoo, showcasing her remarkable strength. Possessing necromantic abilities akin to Jinwoo's, Querehsha wielded control over the deceased through parasitic manipulation.
2 Rakan, King Of Beasts
Monarch Of Fangs
Among the Monarchs, Rakan, the Monarch of Fangs, distinguished himself through unique skills and characteristics. Unfortunately, Rakan faced Sung Jin-Woo at a disadvantage, with Jin-Woo fully empowered by Ashborn's abilities. Jin-Woo's augmented strength led to Rakan's defeat, creating a perception of weakness around him.
Despite Rakan's eventual defeat post Jin-Woo's resurgence, his potency was evident. Prior to Jin-Woo's resurgence, Rakan nearly succeeded in eliminating the hunter. Additionally, when S-rank hunter Baek Yoonho encountered Rakan, his instincts recognized Rakan's superiority, acknowledging the Monarch's overwhelming strength. As a beast-transforming hunter, Baek Yoonho's instincts were likely accurate.
1 Legia, King Of Giants
Monarch Of The Beginning
Following the Rulers' vanquishing of the Absolute Being, they imprisoned Legia, disrupting the equilibrium between the Rulers and the Monarchs until Ashborn aligned with the Monarchs. Millennia later, the Rulers retained custody of Legia but offered him an opportunity for freedom through an S-rank gate where he served as the final obstacle.
Encountering Sung Jin-Woo, Legia's schemes were thwarted, leading to his demise. Despite being shackled, Legia managed to ensnare both himself and Sung Jin-Woo with binding spells, preventing deceit. Known for his colossal stature, the Monarch of the Beginning was presumed to possess extraordinary physical capabilities. Unleashed, the King of Giants would likely rank among the elite Monarchs effortlessly.