Son Heung-min targeted by racial abuse during MLS match

Professional footballer Son Heung-min, playing for LAFC, was subjected to suspected racial abuse following a Major League Soccer (MLS) match at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. After a 2-2 draw against LA Galaxy, Son was seen thanking fans as he exited the pitch when a spectator began repeatedly shouting “Ni Hao” at him.

Videos circulating on social media show the individual, reportedly an LAFC fan, directing the Chinese greeting toward the South Korean player. In Western contexts, using the phrase in this manner is often used as a racial slur to mock or diminish Asian individuals by misidentifying their nationality.

Local reports, including the New York Post, have characterized the incident as “insensitive and racist.” While some fans on social media have called for the individual to have their season tickets revoked, neither LAFC nor the MLS office has released an official statement regarding disciplinary actions as of the latest reports.