GUADALAJARA, Mexico — A Mexican trade association leader has been removed from his position after a viral video showed him making a racist gesture toward a South Korean influencer during a FIFA World Cup match, sparking widespread outrage online.
The controversy unfolded during South Korea’s Group A victory over the Czech Republic in Guadalajara, where South Korean content creator Yoon Su-jin, known online as Incocat_t, was filming herself celebrating in the stands. Yoon, who has built a large following across TikTok and YouTube, later shared footage that appeared to show a spectator seated behind her making a “slant-eye” gesture, a widely condemned stereotype directed at people of East Asian heritage.
The man in the video was identified as Ulises Fernando Bernal Miramontes, then-president of the Jalisco Association of Surveyors and Geomatics Engineers. Following mounting public pressure, the organization announced his removal from the leadership role.
Bernal later issued a video apology, saying he regretted the incident and had taken time to reflect on the consequences of his actions. “I sincerely regret everything this situation has caused,” he said. “I understand the responsibility I have in this moment.”
The video quickly spread across social media platforms, where thousands condemned the gesture and expressed solidarity with Yoon. Many users described the act as “shameful” and “embarrassing for Mexico,” while others praised Yoon for speaking out. Advocacy groups in Mexico and abroad highlighted the case as an example of racism in sports, calling for greater accountability at international events.
Football authorities also weighed in. Mexico’s football federation issued a statement condemning discriminatory behavior and pledging to work with FIFA to ensure stadiums remain safe and respectful environments. FIFA reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on racism, noting that incidents like this undermine the spirit of the World Cup.
Officials in Jalisco said the dismissal was necessary to protect the integrity of the trade association and to send a message that discriminatory behavior would not be tolerated. Local lawmakers echoed the sentiment, with one legislator calling the gesture “a stain on our reputation during a global event.”
The incident has reignited discussions about racism at international sporting events, where discriminatory gestures and chants have repeatedly surfaced. Similar controversies have been reported in European football leagues and Olympic competitions, prompting campaigns to combat racism in sports.
Yoon, who has millions of followers, addressed the incident online, asking whether she was “being too sensitive” but later thanked supporters for standing with her. The episode underscored how viral content can quickly hold individuals accountable, especially when tied to professional roles.
Bernal remains out of his leadership position as the association continues to review the fallout from the incident.
