Mexican man apologizes for racist 'eye-slitting' gesture at South Korean YouTuber

A Mexican man has issued a public apology after making a racist gesture towards a South Korean YouTuber during a World Cup qualifying match. Ulises Fernando Bernal Miramontes directed an 'eye-slitting' gesture at YouTuber Ino-nyang (Yoon Soo-jin) while she was filming a video in the stands at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara.

Miramontes posted an apology on his Instagram account, stating, "I deeply regret everything that has happened due to this situation. I believe it is important to apologize publicly." He added, "I have reflected on what happened and understand the responsibility I now bear. I acknowledge that this situation caused discomfort and wish to express my most sincere apologies clearly and respectfully."

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I deeply regret everything that has happened due to this situation. I believe it is important to apologize publicly.

Following the controversy, Miramontes reportedly resigned from his role as president of an association for surveying and geographic information in Jalisco, Mexico. The incident occurred during the match between South Korea and Czech Republic, which South Korea won 2-1. Ino-nyang, who has a significant following on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, shared the video of the gesture on her Instagram, sparking widespread criticism from both South Korean fans and people in Mexico.

The gesture, often interpreted as mocking Asian facial features, has been widely condemned as discriminatory. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of cultural sensitivity and the impact of online content on public perception, even in the context of major sporting events.

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I have reflected on what happened and understand the responsibility I now bear. I acknowledge that this situation caused discomfort and wish to express my most sincere apologies clearly and respectfully.