(Updated) Seoul Secret has now apologised and removed its "racist" advertisement for a skin-whitening product that quickly received international coverage and condemnation.
Afternoon update
Ad removed, apologies given
Seoul Secret, the company behind the controversial whitening product advertisement has now removed the video clip (still available from other providers) and issued the following apology on its Facebook page.
"Seoul Secret, as the rightful owner of the video clip, would like to apologise for the mistake, and claim full responsibility for this incident. Our company did not have any intention to convey discriminatory or racist messages.
From CNN.com
What we intended to convey was that self-improvement, in terms of personality, appearance, skills, and professionality, is crucial."
"However, we would like to express a heartfelt apology and thank you all for the comments. Currently, we have removed the video clip, related advertisements, and other planned materials to show our responsibilty in this incident."
The apology came to late, however, to prevent the story from being broadcast around the world, most notably CNN, which issued a scathing story on its website"
"It's hard to imagine anything more blatant than this," the story began.
A new Thai beauty ad claiming white skin is the key to success has unleashed a storm of criticism in Thailand, especially online, where people complain the ad perpetuates damaging, racist ideas.
Morning story
"You just need to be white to win"
At 35, award-winning actress, entertainer Cirin "Cris" Horwang, is not exactly "old", but in such a competitive business there are always challenges.
Interestingly, talent doesn't seem to be one of them. All a younger actress needs to steal a scene, it seems, is fresher, whiter skin.
"You just need to be white to win," she says in a newly-released advertisement for (get ready for a big surprise) a skin-whitening product.
Becoming and staying a star is a long, difficult process, she says, and her own investment in "whiteness" could be endangered if she stops "taking care of herself," i.e., stops using whitening products.
To reinforce the point, the advertisement shows a young, white-skinned actress coming into the scene as Cris' own skin gradually darkens to black.
Reaction in the social media has been strong, but mixed. Many are critical of the "racist" idea that white skin is somehow more beautiful and superior to dark skin. But others, reportedly, just wanted to know where they could buy the product.
What about you?