It was a night of surprises and jubilation as the 9th Crunchyroll Anime Awards stormed the anime world on May 25, 2025. South Korean phenomenon Solo Leveling dominated the stage with a jaw-dropping nine awards, including the prestigious Anime of the Year, upsetting expectations and knocking out critical darling Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. The victory has not only generated global discourse but also highlighted the increasing global popularity and penetration of anime translations from non-Japanese sources.
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The Dark Horse Rises
No one expected it—at least not to this degree. Solo Leveling, based on the hit South Korean web novel and webtoon, managed an incredible sweep that sent fans both amazed and elated. With heart-thumping action scenes and emotional storytelling surrounding hero Sung Jinwoo, the anime picked up steam in no time since its release early this year. As much as Frieren swept up nominations and was favored to be the likely winner, it was actually Solo Leveling that won gold where it counted.
The Tokyo ceremony was a colorful celebration of anime culture that drew in international creators, fans, and voice actors. The mass success of Solo Leveling is not only an underdog victory but also a turning point in international anime tastes, where fans are embracing stories from around Asia and the world more and more.
The 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards were not simply a popularity contest—it became a testament to the ever-widening cultural boundaries of anime. Racking up more than 51 million fans across the globe voting for them, Solo Leveling’s win was a testament to the internationalization of the genre and the increasing demand for varied narratives. Its combination of dark visuals, high-energy action, and an intensely personal hero’s journey obviously resonated with viewers far and wide.
With social media aflame with fan art, reaction videos, and celebratory posts, the anime industry took notice. From South Korean content creators to Japanese studios and global streamers, Solo Leveling has become a shining beacon of cross-cultural collaboration well-executed.
What’s Next
With Season 2 having already been greenlit, Solo Leveling now takes center stage with its sights set high. Will it reign supreme on the awards circuit again next year? Can it pave the way for additional Korean and other Asian webtoons entering the anime mainstream?
Whatever the future may bring, it is certain that Solo Leveling has leveled up not only its hero—but the entire anime industry as a whole.
Key Takeaways
- Solo Leveling takes Anime of the Year, Best New Series, and Best Action Anime
- Fan voting reaches over 51 million worldwide, demonstrating huge global interest
- Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, although nominated in 29 categories, wins fewer awards
- Historic anime award sweep by a Korean-origin webtoon adaptation