Converse Pulls Ad After Backlash Over KKK Imagery
Footwear brand Converse pulled an international advertisement and issued a formal apology after an online backlash accused the promotional campaign of featuring imagery resembling Ku Klux Klan hoods and lynchings. The controversial image, released as part of a global marketing push for the Chuck 70 X sneaker line, featured K-pop artist Karina of the girl group aespa standing in front of a white backdrop beneath a projected star-shaped spotlight while holding a pair of black high-top shoes.
Social media users quickly pointed out that the lighting, silhouette, and white clothing combined to create a pointed shape echoing Ku Klux Klan attire, while the dangling shoes held at her side evoked images of a hanging body. According to an official news report published by The Independent, the Nike-owned brand pulled the images from its social media channels and official platforms after an uncropped version of the campaign circulated online, intensifying public outrage.
The controversy widened as critics highlighted a second recent promotional image from a collaboration between Converse and Copenhagen-based lifestyle label Palmes, which depicted a person standing near a ladder with sneakers hanging from a tree branch.
Photographers, public figures, and consumers criticized the review process at Converse, questioning how the visual compositions passed corporate approvals. In a public statement addressing the fallout, Converse acknowledged the severity of the mistake, stating that the company understood why the imagery was deeply upsetting and confirming that teams are actively working to remove the advertisement from all promotional distribution channels globally.
