FIFA confirmed on 17/6 that it extended an invitation to Yoon Su-jin, known by the nickname Inonyang, to attend the South Korea versus Mexico match. This 2026 World Cup group stage game took place at the Guadalajara stadium the following day, on 18/6. The invitation was a direct response to a controversial incident on 12/6, where Yoon was subjected to a racist gesture during a match.
In a statement, FIFA expressed its pleasure that Yoon accepted the invitation. The match on 18/6 coincided with the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, prompting the organization to collaborate with the South Korean fan to deliver a message of respect and inclusion.
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A South Korean fan experienced racial discrimination during a 2026 World Cup match at Guadalajara stadium, Zapopan, Mexico, on 12/6. *Screenshot*
The incident occurred while Yoon was filming a vlog in the stands for her personal YouTube channel. As she aimed the camera at herself, a Mexican man seated behind her made a gesture of pulling his eyes upwards with two fingers. This action is widely recognized as a racist act against Asians. The footage quickly went viral on social media after Yoon posted it. Following the match, the YouTuber uploaded the video, titled, "Tell me if I am being too sensitive". The incident quickly garnered international attention, sparking widespread criticism of the man in the footage.
The moment Yoon was subjected to discrimination by Bernal.
Mexican media outlets subsequently investigated to identify the individual. Several local newspapers identified the man responsible for the gesture as Ulises Fernando Bernal Miramontes, president of the Association of Surveying and Geoinformatics Engineers of Jalisco state. Mexican media widely condemned the act as shameful, highlighting the public mockery of a foreign female spectator's appearance at the world's largest football event.
Public pressure prompted Bernal to issue a public apology on 14/6 via his personal social media account. "I want to apologize to everyone, including the female fan involved. I believe it is necessary to publicly express my apology", he stated. Bernal also expressed deep regret for his actions, stating he had reflected on his responsibility following the incident. Concurrently with his apology, Bernal decided to resign. Mexican media, however, reported that the Association had removed him from his position.
FIFA is intensifying its campaigns against racism and discrimination at the 2026 World Cup. Prior to the tournament, the Federation had repeatedly affirmed its commitment to implementing strict measures against discriminatory behavior, both on the field and in the stands.
Hoang An (via Chosun)
