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On October 24, 2025, Netflix hosted a press conference at The Westin Josun Seoul Parnas in Seoul for its highly anticipated new series, ‘Physical: Asia’. This groundbreaking physical competition brings together a diverse Asian cast from eight different nations for a test of strength and spirit. The ambitious survival show is scheduled for a global premiere on Netflix on October 28, 2025.
A Grand-Scale Physical Competition with an Asian Cast
Producer Jang HoGi PD described the show as a large-scale physical competition where national pride is on the line. The series will feature 48 contestants, with six representatives from each of the eight participating Asia-Pacific nations: South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Türkiye, Indonesia, Australia, and the Philippines. The production embraces a distinctly Korean aesthetic, with its main set designed to evoke a “sports day at Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Geunjeongjeon Hall” and paying homage to the 1988 Seoul Olympics. This new Netflix original aims to set a new standard for the genre.
Global Representatives and National Pride
The press conference featured a mix of in-person attendees and remote participants, highlighting the show’s international scope. Korean contestants including Yun SungBin, Kim MinJae, Amotti, Jang EunSil, and Choi SeungYeon were present. They were joined virtually by team leaders from across the region, all poised to lead their nations in this ultimate physical competition.
Team Leaders from Across the Region
Representing their respective countries, several national team leaders shared their excitement. The lineup includes South Korea’s Kim DongHyun, Japan’s legendary UFC fighter Yushin Okami, and Australia’s former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker. Also joining were Mongolia’s traditional ssireum wrestler Erdenebayar Bayarsaikhan, Türkiye’s oil wrestling champion Recep Kara, Thailand’s former volleyball player and actor James Rusameekae, and Indonesian bodybuilder I Gede Executioner. The diverse backgrounds of these athletes promise a multifaceted survival show.
Contestant Impressions of the Survival Show
Participants expressed awe at the sheer scale of the production, describing the sets as “unimaginable” with hundreds of cameras capturing every moment. Recep Kara of Türkiye emphasized the historical bond between his country and South Korea, calling them “brother nations.” James Rusameekae from Thailand, who identifies as LGBT, praised the production for its inclusivity, stating the competition transcends nationality, skin color, and gender. I Gede Executioner from Indonesia shared his hope that the show’s blend of passion, spirit, and culture would inspire viewers worldwide.
What to Expect from this Netflix Original
‘Physical: Asia’ promises quests that are deeply rooted in the history and culture of the continent, with challenges set across mountains, ships, and beaches. Building on the success of its predecessors, like the globally acclaimed Physical: 100, this new series aims to elevate the genre. With its unique concept and a truly international Asian cast, this physical competition is set to be a must-watch event when it premieres on October 28, 2025.
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