Fan Accused of Racially Abusing Son Heung-min Denies Claims, Says He Said 'Mijo' Not 'Ni Hao'

The spectator who sparked controversy over allegations of directing racist remarks at South Korea national team captain Son Heung-min (LAFC), who plays in Major League Soccer (MLS), has stepped forward to explain the situation.

On October 28 (local time), the spectator posted a lengthy statement on "LAFC Fans," an LAFC club fan channel, denying allegations that he racially abused Son by shouting the Chinese greeting "Ni Hao" (hello).

Previously, the U.S. media outlet New York Post reported on October 27 that an LAFC fan was witnessed shouting racist remarks at Son after an MLS match.

This followed a video shared on social media showing a spectator wearing an LAFC jersey repeatedly shouting "Ni Hao" at Son as he left the pitch after the 2026 MLS Round 32 match between LAFC and the LA Galaxy (which ended in a 2-2 draw) held at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, California, on October 26.

The video also captured Son looking back at the spectator shouting toward him.

Ignoring an individual's identity and treating all East Asians as if they are Chinese is widely considered a racist act.

Following the release of the video, criticism against the spectator mounted, with some fans demanding that his season tickets be revoked.

The New York Post also pointed out the incident as "insensitive and racist behavior."

However, the fan wrote, "I posted this because I want to ask for help," explaining that what he shouted was not "Ni Hao," but the Spanish word "Mijo."

"Mijo" is a contraction of the Spanish phrase "Mi hijo," which means "my son."

It appears he called out the phrase by linking Son's family name, Son, with the English word meaning male offspring.

He explained the situation by stating, "Another fan next to me thought I yelled 'Ni Hao.' When that woman asked if I had said such a thing, I told her no. I didn't even know what that phrase meant."

He added that he has been a season ticket holder since the founding of LAFC and a dedicated fan who even travels to away matches, expressing regret over the current situation where criticism is being hurled at him.

He also asked anyone who could vouch for who he is to leave a message, adding that he has directly contacted the club's front office and is awaiting a response.
(Photo: Getty Images)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.