Converse Removes Irritating Ad and Issues Apology
An Instagram advertisement featuring K-pop artist Karina has been removed by Converse following criticism that it contained racist imagery.
Sneaker manufacturer Converse has removed an Instagram advertisement featuring K-pop singer Karina that sparked major backlash on social media due to alleged Ku Klux Klan and lynching connotations. The company apologized for the incident.
Backlash Over the Promotional Photo
In the photo shared on Instagram, K-pop singer Karina was seen wearing a skirt while holding Chuck 70 X model shoes. It was claimed that the white triangular shape created by the lighting on the skirt resembled a Ku Klux Klan hood.
Additionally, criticisms that the way the artist was holding the shoes resembled the dangling feet of a lynching victim spread rapidly on social media, causing widespread outrage.
Official Statement and Apology from the Company
Boston-based Converse, a subsidiary of Nike, issued an apology in a statement released on Friday and announced that the relevant promotional image had been removed from all platforms.
In the statement, they acknowledged the mistake by stating that they understood why this image caused deep discomfort, and they expressed that they would work better to ensure a similar situation does not happen again.
Unanswered Questions and Process
Converse declined to answer additional questions regarding how advertisements were reviewed and approved prior to publication.
Artist Karina and her management company, SM Entertainment Group, did not immediately respond to messages sent via their Instagram accounts.
Reactions and Boycott Calls on Social Media
Following the publication of the photo, calls were made for the dismissal of personnel responsible for the ad, along with demands for a boycott of the company.
While some social media users questioning the ad's review process reacted, some users defended the company, stating they did not believe it was done intentionally.
Evaluation by Legal Experts and Similar Incidents
Texas-based civil rights attorney Lee Merritt stated that while Converse apologized, this did not make up for the mistakes that passed through legal, marketing, and leadership processes at every stage.
The retail sector and fashion brands have previously issued apologies over products criticized for being racially insensitive.