Converse apologises and pulls sneaker ad that critics said included racist imagery

Converse has removed an Instagram advertisement that critics deemed evocative of racist imagery. The ad featured K-pop singer Karina wearing a skirt and holding a pair of Chuck 70 X sneakers. Critics claimed that a white triangular image created by the lighting on the skirt resembled a Ku Klux Klan hood, while the way she held the sneakers made them appear like the dangling feet of a lynching victim.

Converse, which is owned by Nike, apologized for the ad and stated that they had removed it from their channels. The company expressed regret for the upsetting image and acknowledged that they had made a mistake. Converse declined to provide further details on their ad screening process or how the ad was approved. Karina and her management company have not yet commented on the issue.

This incident is not the first time retailers and fashion brands have faced criticism for racially insensitive products and advertisements. Last month, Target pulled a children's Halloween costume from its shelves after receiving widespread backlash for selling a garment that critics believed evoked racist minstrel caricatures.