FIFA invites Korean influencer who was subjected to racism to the Mexico match... "We will deliver a message of respect and inclusion"

[Financial News] Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has invited a Korean female influencer, Ino Cat (real name Yoon Soojin), who was subjected to racial discrimination at a 2026 FIFA World Cup venue, to the second Group A match between Korea and Mexico.
In a statement on the 17th (Korea time), FIFA said, "We are pleased that Ms. Yoon has accepted the invitation to attend the Group A match between Korea and Mexico, which will be held on the 19th in Guadalajara," adding, "On the day of the match, which is the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, we plan to deliver a message of respect and inclusion with Ms. Yoon."
Ino Cat attended the first Group A match between Korea and the Czech Republic on the 12th. During the game, she filmed a selfie video, and a Mexican man sitting behind her made a gesture of pulling the corners of his eyes with both hands toward the camera. The gesture, known as a slant-eye gesture, is meant to mock people of Asian descent.
Startled, Ino Cat's expression froze for a moment, and she posted the video on her Social networking service (SNS), saying, "Please tell me if I am being too sensitive."
The post spread rapidly. Many criticized the act as an obvious example of racial discrimination.
Online users later identified the man and revealed his identity. He was identified as Ulises Fernando Bernal Miramontes, president of the College of Surveying Geomatics Engineers of the State of Jalisco (CITGEJ).
Local Mexican media outlet Medio Tiempo also reported on the incident, saying that "some fans criticized Miramontes's behavior on SNS."
As the controversy grew, Miramontes apologized on his personal SNS on the 14th. He said, "I sincerely apologize to Korean fans and everyone who felt offended by my actions. I had no intention of insulting or punishing anyone," and added, "I will take responsibility for this controversy and resign from my position as president."
FIFA said, "The individual involved in the discriminatory act at the match between Korea and the Czech Republic has been identified, and his ticket account has been blocked." It added, "We strongly condemn all forms of racism, hate, and discrimination," emphasizing that "such behavior has no place in football, the FIFA World Cup, or anywhere in society."
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