The importance of the protagonist's growth in "Solo Leveling" lies in his journey from being weak and underestimated to becoming powerful and respected. This growth is essential in driving the plot forward, as it showcases the protagonist's development, challenges he faces, and how he overcomes them. It also adds depth to the story by exploring themes such as self-discovery, determination, and perseverance, which resonate with readers and make the protagonist's transformation a central focus of the series.