“They Send Me Weird Photos Of Their Body”: Physical: 100's Hong Beom-seok Spills His Wildest DMs  

We’re at the fan meet of Hong Beom-seok’s Puma x Hyrox event, and everyone is scrambling to get a glimpse of the star. It is, after all, his first public appearance in Singapore since his incredible run as the runner-up on Physical: 100 Season 2.

This time, the Puma Korea ambassador and father-of-two is in town for Hyrox Singapore — a global fitness competition that puts athletes through a gruelling series of functional workout stations and running laps, testing both strength and endurance.

The atmosphere crackles with energy. Fans and sports enthusiasts crowd in, phones raised, eager for a glimpse of the man whose journey from soldier to firefighter to reality star has inspired millions.

Away from the crowds and flashing cameras, we score a rare treat: an exclusive 10-minute interview session alone with the Physical: 100 star.

Up close, the 39-year-old’s presence is both commanding and approachable. He shares that he last visited Singapore 1.5 years ago and has already developed a soft spot for kaya toast.

Cutely calling it “kaya sandwich,” Beom-seok’s eyes light up as he enthusiastically confesses that he can’t wait to feast on our local fare after the Hyrox race.

It’s clear that, beyond his competitive drive, Beom-seok’s warmth shines through — qualities that become even more apparent as he opens up to The Singapore Women’s Weekly about life, family, and the thirstiest DM he’s gotten. 

The Man Behind the Muscle: Physical 100's Hong Beom Seok

Describe yourself in three words.

Tiger. (He pauses for a really long time and laughs) This is very difficult… Hyrox… (After some reassurance, he adds) And a dad!

Would you want your two sons to join Physical: 100? What advice would you give them?

Don’t take Physical: 100 as a simple TV programme — take it as if your life depends on it. Do your best!

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose?

I would like the ability to run faster than the fastest marathon runner in Korea.

What’s something your wife wishes you’d change?

One thing my wife wishes I would improve is my focus. When I’m really absorbed in something, I tend not to respond or listen to what she says. She hopes I can keep replying to her, even when I’m deep in concentration.

What’s the weirdest DM you’ve gotten?

It’s not from Korean fans. It’s the foreign fans that take photos or capture parts of their body and send it to me... It's as though I’m their husband…

Wait… Does that mean they send you nudes? 

Ah, yes. But if I think that the message (from the previews) seems kinda weird, I just don’t open it.

What’s one thing women always get wrong about strong men?

There is a common perception that men who work out and are muscular might be cold and distant. But actually, there are a lot of men who simply exercise too much and only know about exercising. In fact, they are very pure in their hearts.

What’s the biggest challenge you face as a dad?

It’s the entire responsibility of being a dad (laughs). I feel pressured because I got married when I was young, at only 22. Now that my two sons are growing up, my biggest question is: how can I be a good dad and a good role model?”