Gov’t withdraws controversial anti-drugs ad with AI pop stars named after Cannabis, Ice, Cocaine and Etomidate

Hong Kong's Correctional Services Department (CSD) has retracted a controversial anti-drugs advertisement that used AI-generated pop stars named after illicit substances. The video, titled "Obsession: The Sugar-Coated Trap," drew public criticism for allegedly glamorizing drugs, prompting the department to remove it.

“

The most successful drug advertisement ever in Hong Kong.

The ad featured four characters: Weedy (cannabis), Icy (ice), Coke (cocaine), and Little E (etomidate, or "space oil"). They introduced themselves with lines like "Romantic smoke will help you forget all your troubles" and "Easy-to-drink coke help you keep your mind sharp." The characters then transformed into old men, with a slogan warning that "Drugs are extremely harmful and can ruin a life."

Online commenters reacted negatively, with one user on YouTube stating, "The most successful drug advertisement ever in Hong Kong." Another remarked, "After watching it, I want to eat a few bites of each." The CSD issued a statement on Saturday, acknowledging the backlash and promising to "balance creativity and the public’s level of acceptance" in future campaigns.

“

After watching it, I want to eat a few bites of each.

This is not the first time government anti-narcotics promotions in Hong Kong have faced scrutiny. In 2021, the Hong Kong Police Force used the slogan "You Only Live Once" (YOLO) for an anti-drug campaign, which netizens pointed out ironically encourages risky behavior. Additionally, a poorly placed ad in a Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station in March appeared to read "take drugs" from a certain angle, leading to an apology from the Security Bureau.

“

We will balance creativity and the public’s level of acceptance in the future and ensure our messaging is clear and accurate.