Real Madrid, PSG Stoke Controversy By Inappropriately Using Term 'Chinese New Year'

▲ This composite image, uploaded on the social media post of South Korean professor Seo Kyoung-duk, shows the social media posts of Real Madrid (left) and Paris Saint-Germain, referring to "Chinese New Year" instead of "Lunar New Year." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Jan. 31 (Yonhap) -- Several prestigious European football clubs have come under fire for referring to the Lunar New Year as "Chinese New Year" on their social media platforms.

Seo Kyoung-duk, a professor at Sungshin Women's University, criticized the labeling via social media on Friday, stating, "It is a major issue that globally renowned clubs, such as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where Lee Kang-in plays, and Real Madrid, home to Kylian Mbappé, have chosen to use the term 'Chinese New Year.'"

He further pointed out, "Lunar New Year is celebrated in various Asian countries, including Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Labeling it as 'Chinese New Year' as if it were an exclusive Chinese holiday disregards the sentiments of many Asian fans."

Seo also referenced international recognition of the holiday, stating, "The United Nations has designated Lunar New Year as an 'optional holiday,' and the New Jersey Senate in the U.S. adopted a resolution recognizing it as an official holiday. In 2021, the Canadian Prime Minister even extended greetings by saying 'Happy Lunar New Year' and 'Gamsahamnida' (Thank you in Korean) in a televised address, demonstrating the global trend of using 'Lunar New Year.'"

Seo further remarked, "Through persistent protests, many European football clubs have amended their use of the Rising Sun Flag design. Likewise, we will continue to raise awareness about the legitimacy of 'Lunar New Year' terminology and do our best to ensure this change happens."

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