Man caught making racist gesture at World Cup issues public apology
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic on 11 June at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, a spectator was filmed making an offensive gesture directed at a South Korean content creator.
The individual, identified as Ulises Fernando Bernal Miramontes, was seated behind Yoon Su-jin, known as Ino Cat on YouTube, and was captured pulling the corners of his eyes in a manner widely recognised as a derogatory "slant-eye" gesture mocking East Asian features.
Ino Cat, a popular South Korean YouTuber with millions of subscribers, was documenting her experience at the stadium when the incident occurred.
Gran escándalo! El hombre racista que se burló de un influencer coreano diciendo «decían que eran hermanos» resultó ser un alto funcionario mexicano: «Es una vergüenza para el país» pic.twitter.com/eB5wIXe5HW
— hector.lopez0073 (@2024Chihua) June 14, 2026
Many viewers, including numerous Mexicans, expressed disgust and emphasised that the behaviour did not represent their nation or its hospitality towards visitors.
In response to the intense public backlash, Bernal issued a public apology via video on social media.
He expressed regret, stating that his actions contradicted the welcoming spirit Mexico extends to foreigners.
He apologised to Ino Cat, the broader Korean community, international visitors, and Mexicans who felt embarrassed by his conduct.
As a consequence of the incident, Bernal resigned from his position as president of the College of Geomatics and Topographic Surveying Engineers of the State of Jalisco.
Reports indicate that FIFA also took measures, including blocking his ticketing account. The engineering guild addressed the matter internally following the viral outcry.
Ino Cat responded to the episode with composure, acknowledging the kindness shown by the majority of Mexican fans and supporters during her visit. FIFA subsequently extended an invitation for her to attend South Korea’s upcoming match against Mexico, scheduled around the UN International Day for Countering Hate Speech, as a gesture of support.
