Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Netflix's 'Physical: Asia' offers Olympic‑style battle of nations
Korean cast for Netflix reality competition "Physical Asia" pose, while cast members from other Asian countries participate in a video call, during a press conference at The Westin Seoul Parnas in Gangnam District, Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of Netflix
By Park Jin-hai
Netflix expands Korean original reality competition 'Physical: 100' into global franchise with 'Physical: Asia'
Netflix’s Korean original reality series “Physical: 100” has evolved into a global franchise with the launch of its first international spinoff, “Physical: Asia,” premiering Oct. 28. Following the two record-breaking seasons, this new edition expands the show’s universe into a nation-versus-nation showdown of sheer power, endurance and pride.
Described by creator and director Jang Ho‑gi as an “Olympic‑style competition you’ll only see on Netflix,” “Physical: Asia” brings together 48 athletes from eight countries — Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Turkey, Indonesia, Australia and the Philippines — battling under their national flag in six‑member teams.
The series assembles a lineup of sporting legends, including Filipino boxing hero Manny Pacquiao and former UFC champion Robert Whittaker from Australia, alongside Olympic medalists and champions from wrestling, ssireum (traditional Korean wrestling), Muay Thai and other sports.
“When I first got the call, I was really excited and thrilled to be chosen. After meeting with the producers, I decided to join the show. I personally helped put together Team Philippines, and I think we’re perfect — we’ve got both speed and strength,” Pacquiao said via video call during a press conference for the new show Friday.
“I spent a lot of time thinking about how we could win, and I also wanted to show that I can still perform physically at a high level.”
A promotional poster for Netflix reality competition "Physical Asia" / Courtesy of Netflix
Pacquiao added that he watched Seasons 1 and 2 closely to see how the contestants fought and prepared.
“This time I felt just how strong Korean athletes are.”
Korean UFC fighter Kim Dong‑hyun, who leads Team Korea, recalled moments from “Physical: 100” Season 2, speaking from Dubai via video call.
“I trained hard for the chance to compete again, and when this opportunity came — to carry the national flag on my chest — I gave everything with the mindset of representing my country,” Kim said.
“I always dreamed of becoming part of a national team, and even though I never officially made one, through this program I feel like I’ve achieved that dream.”
Kim described Team Korea as unique in many ways.
“Our squad is made up of people with very different personalities, and that variety is our biggest strength. The best part is that we don’t have just one captain — there are six of us. I’m simply the oldest, but everyone on the team leads in their own way. To me, that’s what represents the true strength of South Korea.”
Others who joined the press event virtually were Yushin Okami from Japan, James Rusamikae from Thailand, Robert Whittaker from Australia, Orkhonbayar Bayarsaikhan from Mongolia, Recep Kara from Turkey and Igedz Executioner from Indonesia.
Filmed in a colossal arena set built with 1,200 tons of sand and 40 tons of steel, the production features epic designs inspired by Korean heritage — from Gyeongbok Palace’s Geunjeongjeon Hall to guardian statues of Haetae (a mythical Korean creature symbolizing justice and protection), merging Asian mythology and athleticism into a grand spectacle.
“Physical: Asia” is the first regional spinoff of the hit Korean franchise, with U.S. and European editions already in development, signaling a new chapter for the globally expanding competition series from Korea.