FIFA have invited South Korean influencer Ino Cat to attend her country’s next World Cup match against Mexico after she reported a racist gesture from a supporter during the tournament.
The influencer, whose real name is Yoon Su-jin, spotted the incident during South Korea’s opening match against Czech Republic on 12 June.
Although South Korea won 2-1, it was a clip posted by Yoon afterwards that quickly drew attention, showing a Mexican fan in the background making a racist gesture by pulling his eyes back.
FIFA respond after Ino Cat files racism complaint
According to South Korean newspaper Chosun, FIFA responded by inviting Yoon to South Korea’s next group stage match against Mexico.
The match is set for 18 June at Estadio Guadalajara.
It also falls on the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, giving FIFA’s invitation added significance.
Yoon, known online as Ino Cat, has reportedly accepted and will be in attendance.
Fan blocked from buying World Cup tickets
The video of the gesture spread quickly online, prompting widespread criticism.
FIFA moved to identify the supporter and have since banned him from purchasing tickets for the remainder of the World Cup.
The fan later appeared in a video apology, expressing regret and saying he wanted visitors to feel welcome in Mexico.
He acknowledged that his actions had the opposite effect and apologised to both the Mexican and Korean communities for what he described as inappropriate behaviour.
Meanwhile, the individual responsible for the discriminatory act against Ino Cat during Korea’s match against Czechia has been identified, and their ticketing account has been blocked.
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