Racism: South Korea complains to FIFA over racist abuse

South Korea’s football association has lodged a formal racism complaint with the global governing body, FIFA, over an alleged racist comment aimed at Wolverhampton Wanderers forward, Hwang Hee-chan, by Italian club, Como, player.

South Korea claimed that during a pre-season match in Spain on 15th July 2024, an unnamed Como player allegedly referred to Hee-chan as “Jackie Chan”.

The name-calling was in reference to the popular Hong Kong movie star known for his martial arts films.

Como, however, denied the claim, saying that their player did not make any derogatory remarks.

Certain Wolves players’ reactions have exaggerated the incident, Como insisted.

The Korea Football Association (KFA) stated on 18th July 2024, that it had sent an official letter to FIFA expressing serious concern about the racist acts suffered by Hwang Hee-chan.

On Thursday, the association stated on its official X account that they had urged FIFA to take action.

The goal, it said, was to “eliminate racism on the soccer field.” Earlier this week, Hwang took the fight to Instagram.

He said that the coaching staff and his teammates have pledged to leave the field alongside him, if necessary, in response to the alleged abuse.

“Racism is intolerable in sports and in all aspects of life,” he added, with his post garnering over 143,500 likes.

Como denies

According to Como, its unnamed player said, “ignore him, he thinks he’s Jackie Chan”.

The Italian club insisted that the remark was “in reference to the player’s name.

It also made reference to the constant references of ‘Channy’ made by his own teammates on the pitch”.

Wolves head coach Gary O’Neil expressed full support for Hwang from the entire Wolves team.

Hwang is among several South Korean players who have faced racist attacks while playing in European leagues.

In 2021, eight men were arrested across England and Wales.

They were arrested over suspicion of tweeting racist abuse directed at Tottenham Hotspur star, Son Heung-min.

Racism in sport

Racism in sport remains a pressing issue, manifesting in discriminatory behaviors, remarks, and systemic inequalities.

Despite progress in some areas, incidents continue to highlight the persistence of prejudice and the need for ongoing education.

Addressing racism in sport requires a collective effort from governing bodies, athletes, and fans.

It aims to foster inclusivity, respect, and equal opportunities for all participants, regardless of race or ethnicity.

Some examples

Here are some notable examples of racism events in sports:

1. John Terry and Anton Ferdinand Incident (2011):

During a Premier League match between Chelsea and Queens Park Rangers, John Terry, then captain of Chelsea, was accused of racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.

Terry allegedly used racist language towards Ferdinand, leading to a legal case.

Terry was fined and suspended by the Football Association.

2. Luis Suarez and Patrice Evra Incident (2011)

Luis Suarez, playing for Liverpool at the time, was found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra during a Premier League match.

Suarez was handed an eight-match ban and fined by the Football Association for racism.

3. Mario Balotelli in Serie A (2013):

Italian striker Mario Balotelli faced repeated instances of racial abuse during his time playing in Serie A for AC Milan and other clubs.

This included fans chanting racist slurs and throwing bananas onto the field, highlighting ongoing issues with racism in Italian football.

4. Adam Goodes in Australian Rules Football (2013-2015):

Adam Goodes, an Indigenous Australian player in the Australian Football League (AFL), faced persistent racial abuse from fans during matches.

The incidents sparked national debate in Australia about racism in sport and broader society.

5. Monkey Chants Directed at Black Players in European Football (ongoing issue):

Various incidents across European football leagues involve fans directing monkey chants towards black players.

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