Luo Ji is the protagonist of The Dark Forest and undergoes an immense transformation between the opening and closing scenes of the novel. He is an astronomer who in a whirlwind of action finds himself as one of humanity’s last hopes: a Wallfacer. Luo Ji obtains immense power in this position and despite not wanting or understanding his role, he cannot escape it. He decides to be a Wallfacer, but in his own way:

[H]e turned his attention to the power in his hands. The least of all the Wallfacers, Say had said, but he would certainly be able to make use of a terrifying amount of resources. Most importantly, he didn’t have to justify his use of them to anyone (119-20).

Luo Ji begins as selfish and self-centered. He would rather live out his life in comfort than participate in the Wallfacer program and wastes resources and time with self-serving requests. It is only after his wife and child are hibernated to kickstart his plans that Luo Ji truly accepts his role as a Wallfacer.

Unlike many of the other characters who have a purpose and drive that remains constant, Luo Ji is a dynamic character, who undergoes an immense change as he first accepts and then pursues his Wallfacer responsibilities.