Cartoonist and TV personality Kian84 has kicked off an extreme marathon adventure in South Africa.
The premiere episode of MBC’s new reality show Extreme 84, which aired on Sunday, followed Kian84 and fellow cast member Kwon Hwa Woon as they tackled a grueling trail marathon. Unfortunately, Choo Sung Hoon had to withdraw early after suffering a bone fracture in the first episode.
The marathon’s first stop was South Africa, where participants ran alongside lions, elephants, and buffalo. Kian84 shared his thoughts on the challenge, saying, “I was nervous, but also drawn to it. If it’s not dangerous, it’s not fun. I like risky things.”
He also opened up about his changing physique, responding to compliments: “My body is looking good, but my face has taken a bit of a hit. Still, my jawline is back, so I’m satisfied.” He added, “I wanted to lose another 22 pounds, but it’s not happening. At my age, losing that much just makes you look all wrinkled.” Fellow cast member Kwon Hwa-woon reassured him: “No, you look the same as before. Your eyes, nose, and mouth still have that youthful charm.”
On race day, Kian84 acknowledged the challenges of jet lag: “I’ve heard that adjusting to the time difference can be tough. Of course, I won’t be as fast as running in Seoul, but I prepared thinking I could at least finish.”
Kian84 aimed to complete the marathon within seven hours, but he quickly ran into trouble. “I lost focus,” he admitted, starting to walk just three kilometers (1.9 miles) in. “I planned to start walking after 18 miles, but I couldn’t make it that far,” he said, visibly struggling. Previews for the show tease a dramatic moment where Kian84 collapses and vomits, drawing significant attention.
