Japanese influencer sparks outrage with 'slant eye' gesture mimicking K-pop star

Japanese influencer Gamicx has ignited a firestorm of controversy after making a gesture widely interpreted as racist while participating in a popular K-pop dance challenge. The incident occurred when Gamicx attempted to parody the "BAD" challenge performed by San, a member of the South Korean group ATEEZ.

During the video, posted on social media, Gamicx pulled the corners of their eyes back with their fingers, a gesture historically used to mock and demean people of East Asian descent. The video also featured a photo of San, intensifying the perceived insult.

South China Morning Post reported that the gesture is a well-known racist trope. The backlash was particularly sharp because Gamicx, despite being Japanese, engaged in this behavior, leading many to question their understanding and respect for racial sensitivities.

Following the widespread criticism, Gamicx removed the offending video. The influencer later posted a separate video addressing the controversy, pointing to their own eyes and stating, "These are Asian eyes. My eyes don't open well every morning." This explanation has done little to quell the anger, with many deeming the apology insufficient and the initial act deeply offensive.

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These are Asian eyes. My eyes don't open well every morning.