Mexican Official Faces Backlash After Making 'Slanted Eye' Gesture Behind Korean Fan at World Cup

This video was posted by a YouTuber during the first match between South Korea and the Czech Republic at the North and Central American World Cup, held at a stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico, on June 12.

In the background of the footage showing the stadium atmosphere, a man is seen looking at the camera and pulling the corners of his eyes with his fingers.

This is a well-known racist gesture used to mock the physical appearance of East Asians.

The video, titled "Am I being too sensitive?", spread rapidly online, sparking fierce criticism that the act was "clear racism."

As the video became a major controversy in Mexico, local media identified the man as Ulises Fernando Bernal Miramontes, the president of the College of Civil Engineers of Jalisco, Mexico.

Reports strongly criticized his actions, noting that he is a figure who has participated in regional academic events and public forums.

Mexican netizens also reacted with comments such as "I am ashamed as a fellow Mexican" and "He must be held accountable," with some calling for his resignation from the presidency.

Seo Kyoung-duk, a professor at Sungshin Women's University, demanded a public apology from Miramontes through his social media and emphasized that FIFA should also pay close attention to such incidents.

Reported by Jeong Gyeong-yun | Video by Na Hong-hee | Graphics by Lee Jeong-ju | Source: Inonyang Instagram | Produced by SBS Digital News
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.