Many anime enthusiasts, such as Swedish fan Andre Denisson, have had disappointing experiences with prior adaptations, asserting there's little need for them. Live-action remakes often struggle to capture the vibrant art and dynamic storytelling that anime is known for. Spanish fan Ander Guerrero voiced concerns about modern CGI technology's capability to replicate iconic fight sequences present in Solo Leveling, stressing that the animated version sets a high bar.

Moreover, historical attempts to adapt anime into live-action films have largely missed the mark, as seen with the critically panned Dragonball Evolution and the controversial casting in Ghost in the Shell. Despite these challenges, Hollywood remains undeterred, with significant projects like Gundam and Naruto in the pipeline, a reflection of anime's lucrative market currently valued at an estimated $34 billion.

Furthermore, shifting cultural perceptions around anime have transformed it from a niche hobby into mainstream entertainment. Many fans express that anime now offers a refreshing alternative to Hollywood films, providing emotional depth and a break from tired storytelling tropes. Producer strategies, such as creating live-action versions, might cater to growing audiences while promoting platforms like Netflix that offer original anime content.

The strategic choice to cast a Korean cast and crew in Solo Leveling offers hope that this adaptation will resonate more authentically with fans, preserving the narrative's foundation without losing cultural nuances. While uncertainty looms over the potential success of this live-action adaptation, there remains cautious optimism among fans who hope it will bring the gripping story of Sung Jin-woo to an even wider audience without compromising its core essence.