FIFA invites Korean influencer after racist incident

A Korean social media influencer who was targeted by a racist gesture at a World Cup match in Mexico has been invited by FIFA to attend South Korea's upcoming group-stage game as part of an anti-hate message. The incident, which occurred during South Korea's opening match against the Czech Republic on June 11, sparked widespread condemnation and led to the public apology and resignation of the fan responsible.

The influencer, Yoon Sujin, known online as Ino Cat, recorded the incident at Akron Stadium in Zapopan, near Guadalajara. In a video she later posted on social media, a man seated behind her is seen pulling the corners of his eyes back while looking at the camera, a gesture widely regarded as offensive to people of East Asian descent. Yoon captioned the post, asking viewers if she was being "too sensitive" and noting she had "experienced racism at the World Cup."

The video quickly went viral, drawing outrage online. Many Mexican fans rallied around Yoon, apologizing for the individual's behavior and emphasizing that he did not represent Mexican hospitality. "Please don't judge Mexico by the actions of one person," one comment read, a sentiment echoed by numerous others.