Japanese Influencer Apologizes for Mocking ATEEZ's San with Racist Gesture

Japanese social media star Gamix has issued a public apology after facing intense backlash for performing a racist "slant-eye" gesture while parodying ATEEZ member Choi San.

On March 24, Gamix posted a video on his personal account accompanied by a written apology. Appearing in a somber black suit, the influencer bowed his head as he addressed his controversial actions.

"I sincerely apologize for the gesture I made," Gamix stated. "I also extend my deepest apologies to San, the other ATEEZ members, their fans, and everyone in the Korean community who was hurt or offended by my actions."

Attempting to explain his motivation, Gamix said, "As an Asian myself, I used that gesture as a form of self-deprecating humor."

He elaborated, "I've observed people abroad reclaiming racist expressions directed at them and turning them into humor. I naively thought that by mocking a discriminatory gesture as an Asian person myself, I could somehow diminish its weight and meaning."

Gamix emphasized that he harbored no ill will towards San, Korea, or K-pop. "I have absolutely no hatred or disrespect for San, Korean people, or the K-pop community," he insisted, bowing once more to apologize to all those he had offended.

The controversy began on March 20th when Gamix posted a video participating in ATEEZ's "BAD" challenge. While following the choreography with San's photo displayed, he pulled the corners of his eyes sideways - a gesture widely recognized as a racist mockery of East Asian features.

As the video spread, many expressed disbelief that a fellow Asian would engage in such offensive behavior. Amid mounting criticism, Gamix removed the video from his account.

Born in 2007, Gamix is a popular Japanese influencer known primarily for soccer-related content. He boasts over 1 million followers across his various social media platforms.