Who is Goto Ryuji in Solo Leveling? Explore the answer to this question, his role, abilities, and final fate in the series.

Solo Leveling is one of the most beloved novels and manhwas and has recently expanded its audience through the fan-favorite anime adaptation. The story delves into the world of superhuman hunters who fight against monsters inside gates and dungeons.
While the first part of the series majorly focuses on South Korea, it soon takes it to the global scale. Through this, we are introduced to a plethora of new hunters representing their nations and cultures. Goto Ryuji is one such figure, fascinating fans despite his lack of screen time. So, who is Goto Ryuji in Solo Leveling?
Goto Ryuji is the strongest Japanese hunter who collaborated with the Korean government to lead the Jeju Island Raid Party. His influence in the world, eventual clash with Sung Jinwoo, and final fate helped create some of the most memorable moments in the series. Here is a closer look at them.
Who Is Goto Ryuji in Solo Leveling?

Goto Ryuji is an S-Rank Hunter from Japan who leads the Draw Sword Guild. Unlike Korea where multiple guilds are maintaining the power balance, Ryuji’s group is unequivocally the strongest in his country with 11 S-Rank Hunters.
At first glance, Ryuji was a calm and composed individual with an analytical mindset. He was willing to collaborate with Korea to help rid them of the ants on Jeju Island. However, as the series continued, his facade was unmasked.
In reality, Ryuji was a cunning and selfish man whose plan involved leading the Korean hunters to their deaths on Jeju Island. He was overconfident and highly egotistical, easily triggered by Jinwoo’s casual demeanor.
Goto Ryuji’s Strengths and Abilities

Solo Leveling never revealed the full extent of Goto Ryuji’s strength, but he is an extremely impressive individual. Having reached the pinnacle of power in Japan, Ryuji’s status is just below that of the National Level Hunters. He is also considered a rival to the Chinese hunter Liu Zhigang.
Ryuji’s senses are extremely sharp since he could recognize Jinwoo’s potential soon after seeing him. During their clash, he displayed enhanced strength and speed, grazing Jinwoo’s skin and moving at great speeds. A potential clash between him and the protagonist at full power was also believed to cause great destruction, due to which other S-Rank Hunters intervened.
Ryuji’s weapon of choice is a long red katana. He has mastery over this, though we never see him wield it properly. Finally, Ryuji is a very clever man who can influence others properly. His plan of sabotaging the Korean hunters was smart and nearly come true if not for the Ant King and Sung Jinwoo.
Goto Ryuji’s Role in the Jeju Island Arc

When the mutated ants on Jeju Island began flying to Japanese cities and harming their citizens, Goto Ryuji and his guild took action. With the secretive purpose of using the Korean hunters for their benefit, leading them to their deaths and undermining the country, Ryuji approached Go Gunhee.
He suggested an alliance between both nations, after which they would raid Jeju Island and kill the Ant Queen. After gaining approval, renowned hunters from both nations gathered for a joint training session.
At this point, Jinwoo attracted Ryuji’s attention for his abilities. While vainly asking the protagonist for a spar, Ryuji quickly becomes angry after seeing his opponent’s easygoing attitude. Making matters worse, he was unable to land a decisive blow. When things were getting too intense, those around them stepped in and stopped the battle.

Soon after this, Ryuji and the raid party began their infiltration on Jeju Island. However, while the Korean team was struggling to fight the ants, Ryuji’s real plan was revealed. Scheming to leave the other hunters helpless, Ryuji and those under him were going to pull out of the raid early and abandon them. However, a wrench was soon thrown into their plans – the appearance of the Ant King.
Hence, Goto Ryuji’s role in Solo Leveling is that of a villain in a hero’s disguise. He was working on hurting Korea’s power dishonestly while making his own nation greater. Unfortunately, his arrogance soon came to bite him back.
Goto Ryuji’s Final Fate in Solo Leveling

When Ryuji and the other Japanese hunters were planning to retreat, they felt a terrifying aura. Suddenly, the Ant King attacked them quickly, killing one of Ryuji’s allies.
Ryuji recognized the danger of this ant, though seemingly excited to battle it. When the Ant King questioned the hunter about whether he was their king, Ryuji answered affirmatively. In response, the villainous ant released its pressure, completely overwhelming Ryuji.
The feeling of fear reminded Ryuji of his battle against Jinwoo, soon after which his blade was broken by the Ant King and he was beheaded. This marked the death of the top Japanese hunter Goto Ryuji, setting the stage for Jinwoo to save the day.
Conclusion
Goto Ryuji is a key character in Solo Leveling showcasing the selfishness of humans even when lives are at stake. Despite being a formidable figure, he had concocted an evil plan of tricking the Korean hunters. Unfortunately, due to Jinwoo’s unparalleled powers and the Ant King’s appearance, he was killed before it came to fruition.
Therefore, while he may not be anyone’s favorite character, Goto Ryuji is certainly a memorable part of Solo Leveling.
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