[All] "Only I Level Up" canceled due to author's death? A thorough explanation of the artwork changes and the truth behind the anime sequel!

The webtoon "Only I Level Up" has gained worldwide popularity. Is it true that the series has been canceled due to the death of its illustrator, DUBU? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the truth behind the author's death, how the series ended, the future of the anime, and even the inside story behind the spin-off and artwork changes.

1. What is "Only I Level Up"?

"Solo Leveling" is a Korean webtoon written by Chugong and illustrated by DUBU (Jang Sung-rak) of Redice Studio. It tells the story of Mizushino Shun (Sung Jin-woo in the Korean version), the weakest E-rank hunter, who gains the unique ability to "level up on his own" and grows into the strongest. The series was serialized primarily on Piccoma and has been viewed over 500 million times. It also gained explosive popularity in Japan, where it was adapted into an anime in 2024 and a second season aired in 2025.

2. Who is DUBU (Jang Seong-rak), the illustrator?

DUBU (real name Jang Seong-rak) is an illustrator affiliated with Redice Studio, and is responsible for the illustrations of "Only I Level Up." With his impressive descriptive power and meticulous direction, he breathes life into the characters' emotions and battle scenes. While his other works are largely unknown and he is a mysterious figure, his drawing style is considered to be among the best in the webtoon industry.

3. Dubu died young, and the cause and circumstances of his death

On July 23, 2022, DUBU passed away at the young age of 37 due to a cerebral hemorrhage. The news of his passing was announced on his official website, and many fans were deeply saddened. Coincidentally, the time came just after the announcement of an anime adaptation project, bringing with it a time of mixed joy and sadness. Tributes poured in from within the webtoon industry, with many saying, "Without him, this work would not have existed," and fans around the world expressed their condolences on social media.

4. Is "Only I Level Up" really being canceled?

In conclusion, this work has not been canceled, but has been completed. The final episode was released on January 21, 2022, and the story is concluded with a total of 180 episodes (1 prologue episode + 179 main episodes). In other words, DUBU's death occurred six months after the end of serialization, so the work did not end prematurely. The story concludes with all the plot twists neatly resolved, and although it may seem like it was wrapped up in a sudden turn of events, this is a structural design and not a "cancellation ending."

5. Three reasons why cancellation rumors spread

False information that the series was canceled due to the author's death spread on social media and message boards. The reasons behind this were as follows:

These complex factors have led to the theory that the series will be cancelled.

6. Has the anime version been cancelled? Is there a possibility of a third season?

Following DUBU's death, there were rumors that the anime adaptation would be canceled. However, the first season aired as scheduled in January 2024, garnering high praise for its beautiful visuals and direction. The second season, "Arise from the Shadow," began in January 2025, and the production team's quality was praised as being on par with a feature film. While there has yet to be an official announcement regarding the third season, there is ample stock of the original work, and given the series' streaming success and popularity overseas, a sequel is considered almost certain.

7. Team "DISCIPLES" took over the illustrations for the spin-off

After DUBU's death, Only I Level Up - Side Story was produced, with illustrations by DUBU's former assistant team, DISCIPLES. They faithfully reproduced their master's style, and fans praised them for "feeling no sense of incongruity" and "carrying on DUBU's spirit." The main character of the side story is detective Inukai Akira, and it is being exclusively distributed on Piccoma as a spin-off depicting the world after the main story. All chapters are complete, making it a safe read.

8. Fan reaction and Dubu's achievements

Mourning DUBU's passing spread around the world, with many grateful comments such as, "His depiction of light and shadow was one of a kind," and "Thank you for completing the series." "Only I Level Up" is not just a battle manga set in another world; it is also highly praised for its portrayal of human drama, including family love, loneliness, and growth. DUBU's achievements are etched in the history of webtoons, and he has had a profound influence on subsequent creators.

9. Q&A: Summary of frequently asked questions

Q1. Is it really not being cancelled?
A. Yes. The final episode will air on January 21, 2022, and will be completed with a total of 180 episodes. It was not canceled, but ended as planned.

Q2. Who is drawing the side stories?
A. It was handled by DUBU's former assistant team, DISCIPLES. The illustrations and atmosphere are almost identical to the original.

Q3. When will the third season of the anime be released?
A. There has been no official announcement at present, but there is a high possibility that production will continue, and there are rumors that it will be broadcast in 2026.

Q4. Have you ever worked on illustrations other than DUBU?
A. The main story has been completely drawn by DUBU, and there is no one to write it for him. The spin-offs are being continued by a different team.

10. Summary: DUBU's legendary work

"Only I Level Up" is a truly complete work that concluded in January 2022 and was not "cancelled." While author DUBU's untimely death sparked rumors, he completed the series to the very end, resulting in a masterpiece that ended in a memorable conclusion. His assistants have carried on his spirit in the spin-offs, and it continues to live on in the hearts of fans. With its successful anime adaptation, "Only I Level Up" continues to grow in popularity around the world. DUBU's legacy will continue to be remembered as a monumental work in webtoons.

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