South Korea Triumphs in Netflix's 'Physical: Asia' as Mongolia Celebrates Runner-Up Success

In the Netflix reality show 'Physical: Asia,' South Korea emerged victorious, holding their flag high until the end, while Mongolia secured the second place. The show has gained immense popularity in Mongolia.

'Physical: Asia,' a physical competition featuring eight Asian countries, has captivated audiences worldwide. According to Netflix's Tudum Top 10 website, the show recorded 2.5 million views from November 10 to November 16, ranking 8th in the global non-English TV shows category. Since its premiere on October 28, 'Physical: Asia' has consistently remained in the global Top 10 for three consecutive weeks. The 'Physical' series has achieved a remarkable feat by being in the global Top 10 for three years in a row, showcasing its dominance in physical competitions.

The show features participants from South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Turkey, Indonesia, Australia, and the Philippines, and has garnered significant attention from sports fans worldwide as the first international competition in the series. According to Mongolian media outlet Iq.mn, Mongolia's Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Ts. Undram, expressed his enthusiasm for the show, stating, "I watch 'Physical: Asia' every week with my son. It beautifully showcases Mongolia to the world, enhancing our national pride and boosting tourism. I extend my gratitude to everyone involved." Former Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj also shared his support for the Mongolian team.

Mongolian media UBN News highlighted the show's role in promoting Mongolian wrestling traditions and national pride globally. The leader of the Mongolian team, traditional wrestler Erkhbayar Bayarsaikhan, has become a popular figure. Mongolian viewers have taken to social media to share group viewing photos, reflecting the country's enthusiastic support. The success of 'Physical: Asia' and the confirmed production of 'Physical: 100' in the U.S. and Italy further demonstrate the global expansion potential of Korean entertainment.

The final episodes of 'Physical: Asia,' released on November 18, revealed the winner of the first international competition in the 'Physical' series. The competition was fierce and unpredictable, with Japan taking the lead in the fourth quest, the Battle Rope Relay. South Korea, Mongolia, and Australia fought hard in the fourth quest deathmatch, the 1200kg Pillar Roll, a grueling challenge that tested human limits.

One nation persevered with relentless determination and power, completing 100 laps first, while the remaining two nations pushed forward with a strong desire to avoid elimination and secured their place in the final. The fifth quest, the Castle Siege, was another challenging test for the final three nations. Teamwork was crucial, and the extreme quests heightened the intensity. Teams had to pull a heavily loaded cart up a sand dune and close a massive door with ropes, requiring strength and strategy. The nation with the best teamwork and physical abilities emerged victorious, while the second-place nation advanced to the final. The nation in last place had to lower their flag.

The final featured three games: Wall Push, Metal Drag, and Infinite Tail Chase. The nation that excelled in the strength-based Wall Push and Metal Drag secured the victory, keeping their flag flying in the first international competition of the 'Physical' series. The leader of the victorious nation tearfully expressed, "We protected the torso, which is more valuable than any gold medal. Our team kept the torso and the flag."

'Physical: Asia' showcases the rich cultures of Korea and Asia through grand quests, diverse physical abilities, strategies, and teamwork, providing an exhilarating experience. The athletes' perseverance, endurance in extreme quests, and sportsmanship left a lasting impression.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr