SEOUL — French football star Kylian Mbappé is facing a severe backlash in China following a controversial remark that allegedly caricatured Mao Zedong, prompting a wave of commercial and public fallout in the region.
The controversy erupted after Mbappé made comments involving a "Mao Zedong meme" and reportedly referred to the historical figure as a dictator. The remarks triggered immediate anger across Chinese social media and media outlets, with commentators warning international public figures against disrespecting Chinese historical sensitivities.
Although the player issued an apology within a day—accompanied by local proverb references cautioning against biting the hand that feeds—Chinese media and observers noted that restoring public trust and his local market standing will not be easy. Meanwhile, the incident has drawn broader international attention, reflecting deep divisions over historical interpretations and public speech.
