Ma Dong-seok is stepping back into the spotlight not in a film or drama, but as the leading force behind I Am Boxer, an explosive new boxing reality series. The show is slated to premiere on November 21 at 11 PM KST on tvN and TVING, with global streaming to follow via Disney+.

Designed by the global action star himself, I Am Boxer is a high-stakes survival program focused on reviving K-boxing. With over 30 years of experience in the sport including as a boxing coach and vice president of the Korean Boxing Association Ma Dong-seok’s deep-rooted passion sets the tone for the show.

I’ve dreamed about this stage for a long time,” Ma states in the first teaser, which was released on October 22. The clip previews the fierce spirit and emotional investment of its contestants, including recognizable faces like Jang Hyuk, Julien Kang, and Yuk Jun-seo.

people-Three men in tuxedos standing in the foreground-Ma Dong-seok-A-Lee Da-wit-A-Jang Geon-A-Two distinct promotional posters side-by-side-Poster on the left features the three men prominently against a blurred boxing ring background-Poster on the right shows the three men more subtly placed above a dynamic scene of several boxers fighting in a ring-Both posters share the title "I AM BOXER" in large red text and Korean subtitles below it-Both include broadcast details: "11/21 첫 방송 [금] 밤 11시 tvN TVING"-The men are dressed formally with bow ties, contrasting with the boxing theme-The man in the center (Ma Dong-seok) looks sternly at the camera with crossed arms in the left poster-The men on the left and right of the center figure are holding boxing gloves (red on the left, blue on the right) in the left poster-The overall atmosphere is intense and related to professional or underground boxing-B-Boxing-C-Drama/Show Promotion

MCs Kim Jong-kook and Dex also make impactful appearances, both visibly immersed in the fighters’ bouts. Kim, known for his fitness and combat sports background, watches closely, urging on fighters with intensity. Dex boosts morale with shouts of “It’s all about confidence!

The show promises not just physical combat but emotional storytelling, with every fight contributing to an unscripted sports drama. Promotional posters show Ma Dong-seok flanked by Kim and Dex, each carrying gloves representing their corners red and blue hinting at fierce showdowns ahead.

people-Ma Dong-seok (Master)-A-Kim Jong-kook (MC)-A-Dex (MC)-A-Boxer 1-A-Boxer 2-A-Boxing-A-TV show promotion-A-Korean text-A-tvN-A-I Am Boxer

I Am Boxer is helmed by PD Lee Won-woong (Steel Troops) and writer Kang Sook-kyung (Physical: 100), the team also behind The Wedding War. Their proven track record in adrenaline-fueled reality formats adds to the anticipation.

With its authentic approach to boxing, celebrity power, and compelling narrative, I Am Boxer is set to dominate late 2025’s reality TV lineup.

Sources: naver