Lee Man-gi and Lee Tae-hyun to Lead 'Pro Ssireum vs. Pro Sumo' Showdown

TV CHOSUN's 'Korea-Japan Super Match' is set to feature a groundbreaking broadcast debut: a clash between professional Korean Ssireum and professional Japanese Sumo. Leading the Korean Ssireum team will be legendary figures Director Lee Man-gi, known as the 'Emperor of the Sand Ring,' and Director Lee Tae-hyun, the 'Crown Prince of the Sand Ring.'

Scheduled to air on the 6th and 7th, the show marks the first-ever broadcast encounter between professional Ssireum and Sumo wrestlers, timed for the Chuseok holiday. The broadcast will feature Kim Gu-ra as commentator and strategist, Cho Jung-sik as the caster, and Jung Joon-ha joining as the manager for the Korean team. The anticipation is high with the involvement of former Ssireum superstars Lee Man-gi and Lee Tae-hyun as directors.

Director Lee Man-gi, a celebrated 'Cheonhajangsa' (Grand Champion), shared his long-standing interest in a Ssireum vs. Sumo contest. "This 'Korea-Japan Super Match' has opened the door for a historic match," he stated. "Beyond the outcome, I hope this leads to continued exchange between the two traditional sports of our countries." He also expressed gratitude towards the MCs and commentators, praising their dedication to understanding Ssireum.

Director Lee Tae-hyun, on the other hand, focused on the competitive spirit. "My confidence to try this grew exponentially," he exclaimed, channeling the competitive drive of his active wrestling days. Currently nurturing the next generation of Ssireum athletes at a university, he added, "I have connections with the Sumo wrestlers. I wanted to instill confidence in them." He also highlighted the distinct characteristics of each sport: "Ssireum involves close physical contact using the 'sireum' belt, feeling the opponent's muscles and breath," while emphasizing Sumo's status as "Japan's national pride."

Director Lee Man-gi urged viewers to "show lots of love for our Ssireum," expressing hope that the event contributes to bilateral exchange, win or lose. Director Lee Tae-hyun pledged to "fulfill his duties as a director, leading from the front and supporting from behind."

The two-part 'Korea-Japan Super Match: Ssireum vs. Sumo' promises an adrenaline-fueled showdown, airing on TV CHOSUN on September 6th and 7th at 10 PM during the Chuseok holiday.

Netizens are buzzing with excitement about the historic 'Ssireum vs. Sumo' match. Comments like "It's finally happening!" and "Looking forward to seeing Directors Lee Man-gi and Lee Tae-hyun lead the team" are flooding in. Many are also speculating about the outcome, with questions like "Can Ssireum really beat Sumo?" being raised.