Converse pulls sneaker ad after critics say it uses racist imagery

K-pop star Karina's Converse campaign was removed following criticism over imagery that was perceived as racist, reminiscent of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) and lynching. The sneaker brand Converse apologized for the ad and stated it would be removed from all platforms. The advertisement showcased Karina, from the K-pop group aespa, promoting Converse's Chuck 70 X and Run Star Crush sneakers.

The image depicted her holding the black high-top shoes under a star-shaped spotlight, while wearing a long white skirt. Some online users claimed the lighting and composition gave the white, pointed shape the appearance of a KKK hood, and the positioning of the sneakers suggested the feet of someone being hanged. The controversy escalated when another Converse image surfaced, displaying sneakers hanging from a tree branch, which some critics considered particularly disturbing due to its potential link to lynching history in the United States.

US Representative Troy Carter, a Democrat from Louisiana, criticized the campaign, comparing it to a hooded Klansman framed by what appeared to be the dangling feet of a lynching victim, calling it "racist, reckless and deeply offensive." Converse subsequently removed the advertisement and issued an apology, acknowledging the image was deeply upsetting and that they had made a mistake.

The company stated they would remove the campaign from all platforms and work to remove it from all appearances. The controversy has also questioned how the advertisement cleared Converse's internal review process. While some users argued the resemblance was unintentional, others demanded accountability and a boycott from the company.