South Korea striker Hwang Hee-chan (28, Wolverhampton) has spoken out about the racist incident involving Son Heung-min (32, Tottenham). The Korea Football Association has also taken the matter up with the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

“In an official letter sent to FIFA, the KFA expressed serious concern over the racist behavior of Hwang Hee-chan, who was subjected to racial abuse by an opposing player in a recent practice match, and requested that FIFA further strengthen sanctions against the perpetrators in order to prevent and eradicate racism on the soccer field,” the KFA said on social media on the 18th.

Hwang Hee-chan was the victim of a racist insult from an opposing player. It was during a preseason match between Wolverhampton and Como 1907 (Italy) on April 16th. At that time, one of the Como players reportedly made a racist remark to Hwang. The situation was serious. Wolverhampton striker Daniel Fodense was so angry that he threw a punch at Hwang, who was racially abused during the match. He was quickly shown a red card and sent off.

“Racism is unacceptable in sports and in all things in life,” Hwang said on his social media account on July 17. “After the incident, my coaches and teammates told me to leave the 안전놀이터 stadium if necessary and kept checking on my condition. I am very grateful to my teammates,” he wrote.

“Even under such circumstances, I wanted to continue playing. We did what we had to do on the field. Finally, I want to thank everyone for their support. I will not tolerate any racism.”

After the racist incident, messages of support poured in for Hwang, with many soccer fans “liking” his statement and showing their support, and Wolverhampton midfielder Mario Lemina uploading a photo of him playing with Hwang and saying he would “stand with him”.

Wolverhampton manager Gary O'Neill said: “I was saddened to hear the racist comments made about Hwang. I'm really disappointed that this has happened. It should never happen,” said O'Neill, adding: ”He'll be fine. He has the full support of his teammates,” he said.

National team captain Son Heung-min also liked Hwang's statement and commented, “I'm by your side.” The Korean Football Association joined in. The Korean Football Association also joined in.

Meanwhile, the Como club responded by saying, “We heard Hwang Hee-chan being called ‘Chani’ (Hwang's nickname) by his teammates, so we said ‘Jackie Chan (Jackie Chan),’” and that “we never said anything derogatory intentionally.”