Legendary Wrestlers Lee Man-gi & Lee Tae-hyun Join 'Korea-Japan Super Match' with Kim Gu-ra, Jung Joon-ha, and Jo Jung-sik
The Korean wrestling team is set to face off against Japanese sumo wrestlers in the 'Korea-Japan Super Match: Ssireum vs. Sumo'. Legendary figures of Korean wrestling, Lee Man-gi and Coach Lee Tae-hyun, will provide comprehensive support for the team. They will be joining forces with Kim Gu-ra, Jung Joon-ha, and Jo Jung-sik to create a formidable support crew.
The upcoming Chuseok special 'Korea-Japan Super Match,' airing on October 6th and 7th at 10 PM, promises a historic wrestling showdown between Korea and Japan, with national pride on the line. The Korean champions, representing the pinnacle of ssireum, expressed confidence, stating, 'All the best wrestlers representing ssireum have gathered.' They also declared their determination to win, emphasizing, 'With the Taegeukgi on our chests, we will absolutely not lose.'
Former wrestling star Lee Tae-hyun, known as the 'Crown Prince of the Sand Ring,' has been appointed as the head coach for the first-ever national ssireum team. Coach Lee is expected to focus on nurturing the wrestlers' mental fortitude, emphasizing ssireum philosophy, posture, and self-esteem over mere techniques. Adding to the team's strength is commentator Kim Gu-ra, who will serve as the 'Strategy Analyst.' A well-known sports enthusiast, Kim Gu-ra will offer insightful commentary with his extensive knowledge and analytical skills, providing a unique perspective on the matches.
Veteran broadcaster Jo Jung-sik, acclaimed as the 'Master of Live Broadcasting,' will be the caster, bringing his vibrant commentary and enthusiastic reactions to the broadcast. The chemistry between Kim Gu-ra and Jo Jung-sik is anticipated to form a reliable and dynamic duo. Furthermore, versatile caretaker manager Jung Joon-ha, who is married to a Japanese woman and thus acts as a bridge between the two nations, will join the team. His imposing physique and confident demeanor, even when facing professional sumo athletes, raise expectations for his wrestling prowess.
The grand finale will feature the 'Emperor of the Sand Ring,' Lee Man-gi. A true legend who has dominated the wrestling world by winning the Baekdu, Cheon-ha, and Han-la Jangsa titles, Lee Man-gi will collaborate with Coach Lee Tae-hyun to bolster the team's strategies. With complete support and strategic backing, the invincible Korean wrestling team is poised for a monumental clash against the Japanese sumo representatives, promising an epic spectacle for viewers.
Lee Man-gi is a legendary figure in Korean wrestling, having won numerous titles including the Baekdu Jangsa three times, Cheon-ha Jangsa five times, and Han-la Jangsa once. His charismatic performance during his active career left a lasting impression on many fans. After retirement, he has actively worked as a coach and television personality, contributing to the popularization of ssireum.