SBS News

News > World

"Soccer Fans Again?" Outrage Erupts Over Controversial Photo

Go Hui-gyeong

Published : Jul 7, 2026 8:03 AM

Video

[Anchor] First, there was a controversy recently when a Mexican soccer fan made a gesture pulling their eyes to the side. Are you saying a similar incident happened in Brazil this time?

[Reporter] A Brazilian influencer with 18,000 followers posted a photo of themselves and acquaintances pulling their eyes to the sides with both hands immediately after Brazil defeated Japan in the World Cup Round of 32.

As criticism mounted over the mockery of Asian physical features, the influencer changed their account name and switched it to private.

This is not the first time such a controversy has emerged during the World Cup.

Previously, during the World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic, a head of a Mexican organization made the same gesture, which drew fierce criticism and led to them issuing a public apology and stepping down from their position as association president.

Professor Seo Kyoung-duk urged that this incident should not be taken lightly, calling for a public apology and measures to prevent a recurrence.

(Photo courtesy of Professor Seo Kyoung-duk's Facebook)