Ma Dong-seok Steps into Reality TV with High-Stakes Global Boxing Survival Show

Known for his formidable presence in action films, actor Ma Dong-seok (also known as Don Lee) is making his highly anticipated debut in reality television. This winter, he will headline and produce ‘I Am Boxer’, a mega-scale international boxing survival show crafted to captivate both domestic and global audiences.

The show, produced by tvN and global media giant CJ ENM Co., Ltd, brings cinematic intensity to the small screen with jaw-dropping missions and dramatic locations — all culminating in a grand finale at none other than the iconic MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, often hailed as the ‘Mecca of Boxing.’

Ma Dong-seok, who has trained in boxing for many years and operates his own gym, is not just the face of the show — he’s the mastermind behind the concept and production. As a boxing coach and promoter, he leverages his real-life experience to bring authenticity and grit to the show, setting the stage for compelling rivalries and the raw intensity of the ring.

The production team includes PD Lee Won-woong, known for ‘Steel Troops’ and ’29 Billion: Marriage War,’ and writer Kang Sook-kyeong from the global success ‘Physical: 100.’ The trio’s collaboration is already stirring anticipation among fans of the survival genre.

CJ ENM, commemorating its 30th anniversary in cultural business, continues to lead globally with its unique entertainment formats, and this venture with Ma Dong-seok further underscores its commitment to expanding K-entertainment’s international footprint. The company’s entertainment programs are celebrated worldwide, regularly securing format sales, remake rights, and streaming deals through global OTT platforms.

From early July, ‘I Am Boxer’ will open public auditions for contestants. Uniquely, Ma Dong-seok himself will personally select the final roster. The series is set to air on tvN later this year and will be available to stream globally.