The lights, lanterns and nightlife of central Los Angeles
Koreatown, known as K-Town by locals, is a vibrant neighborhood in central Los Angeles with streets brimming with landmark spots and highly-rated restaurants. Angelenos know K-Town for its high-energy nightlife and eclectic culinary scene, but it's more than just a place to get a drink or a bite to eat. “The nightlife and restaurants are open super late, so it’s nice to have options,” says resident Ani Hassan. “But if you get off the main streets, it’s pretty laidback, so it’s a nice place to live.” Throw in accessible transit and a growing condo market and it's easy to see why Koreatown is an in-demand neighborhood.
K Town is one of the most popular neighborhood attractions for foodies.
Koreatown's Love House features a full restaurant in the day and a bustling bar at night.
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A taste of Asia in Los Angeles
For kimchi, sundubu jjigae, jjajangmyeon or Korean barbecue, locals are spoiled for choice. Restaurants bearing a mix of Hangul and English signage line the streets, filling plazas with savory smells of roasting meat. Michelin-recommended restaurant Quarters Korean Barbecue, a Koreatown staple, serves premium cuts of meat and specialty drinks. For over 20 years, BCD Tofu House has flavored delicacies like raw marinated crab and bibimpap. “There are lots of great restaurants, which everyone loves,” says Stephanie Leeks, a County of Los Angeles Department of Human Resources representative. “My coworkers all work from home, but we come into the office once a week, and we always go out to eat in Koreatown for lunch because there are so many great restaurants. There’s great Korean food, but there’s also other cuisines and some great dessert places.” Residents are within walking distance of bakeries selling specialty cakes, cream-filled pastries and Japanese milk bread. Koreatown also has a vibrant nightlife. Karaoke lovers enjoy specialty cocktails and singing the night away at hotspots like Brass Monkey or SoopSok. At spots like Go Pocha or Toe Bang, patrons sip beer and soju while enjoying Korean late-night bites.
The area is also notable for its shopping and fits several shopping centers within its roughly three-square miles. People from all over venture to Koreatown to stock up on imported products that can be hard to find elsewhere, from ingredients to sunscreen. Chapman Plaza is a landmark site, known for its intricate stone façade, extensive food court and boutique shops, that offer everything from clothing and fine jewelry to luggage and sporting goods. H-Mart, located in the MaDang Mall, is a community mainstay. The store offers an extensive array of fresh produce, extensive meat options, imported goods and ready-to-eat meals. Shoppers will also find beauty supply shops selling popular imported products, like Korean-brand skincare.
Residents in Koreatown have an excellent selection of grocery stores to choose from.
H-Mart in Koreatown has all the essentials for residents.
Plenty of options to choose from at the Koreatown Galleria.
Chunju Han-Il Kwan in Koreatown has one of the best Army Stews in the area.
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Experiencing culture at neighborhood night market and the Korean Festival
Koreatown residents share their heritage with Los Angeles through festivals honoring ancient traditions or replicating Korean experiences. The annual summer Koreatown Night Market features live music performances by local and international artists and dozens of food vendors. The Los Angeles Korean Festival draws thousands who come to try traditional street food and explore vendors of Korean goods. Festivalgoers gather to see K-Pop and folk-dance performances. Booths offer experiences from calligraphy to trying on hanboks, a traditional Korean dress style. The multi-day festival is held every autumn and has been a Los Angeles social highlight for over 50 years.
There is a Korean pavilion next to the Seoul International Park and the community center.
Seoul International Park is a medium sized park in the Heart of Koreatown.
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High walkability, public transportation and access to highways
While Los Angeles is car-dependent, Koreatown’s walkability is a major draw. “It’s a very dense area, and there are many things within walking distance,” says Arthur Yoon, Vice President at Redpoint Realty and head of the Arthur Yoon RE Group. “There’s traffic, but there’s also a lot of foot traffic.” Koreatown blocks are packed with local businesses, and sidewalks are well-traveled by pedestrians and robots. Many local restaurants have outsourced delivery responsibilities to delivery robots: small, automated vehicles with bright flags and an anthropomorphic, eye-like headlights that flash apologetically if a pedestrian wanders into its path. These agile, little machines cart hot meals straight to residents' front doors. However, should residents wish to leave the neighborhood, the city bus offers multiple stops in Koreatown, and the purple line of LA Metro has a station in the neighborhood. Most residents drive and appreciate their proximity to Highway 101 and I-10. Via the 101, residents are 13 miles from Hollywood Burbank Airport. “It's like two miles from Downtown, so if you work Downtown, it's as easy to get there,” says Leeks. “The big downside is parking is horrendous. But public transit is good around here, and you can get all over the place between the busses and subways.”
Bus and subway lines make Koreatown an accessible neighborhood with a high walkability score.
Locals have great access to the cities public transit options with frequent trains and buses.
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Condos in Koreatown
The city has grown up around Koreatown. While there are still a handful of freestanding bungalows, development has pivoted toward maximizing available space. Developers focus on projects like high-rise condos, which allow more people to buy property in this high-demand neighborhood. Some taller buildings even offer views of the Santa Monica mountains on a clear day. “Most people moving to Koreatown are young professionals,” says Yoon. “There is no new single-family housing, and it is mostly condos. A lot of people moving here are people who originally wanted to live in Downtown LA, but Koreatown has less crime and is more affordable than other neighborhoods.” Buyers interested in condos might spend between $400,000 and $1.7 million, depending on the building’s amenities, location and renovations made to the unit. The rare Craftsman bungalows, offering small yards and extra character, sell from $1.1 million to $1.9 million.
Spanish revival style apartments can be found near the heart of Koreatown, Los Angeles.
There are many craftsman style homes in Koreatown, Los Angeles.
Two story craftsman style homes with driveways and front lawns can be found in Koreatown.
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The RFK Community of Schools campus
Koreatown is served by a variety of Los Angeles Unified School District schools, most notably the Robert F. Kennedy Community of Schools, which serves kids from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The Robert F. Kennedy Community of Schools is housed in the former Ambassador Hotel, the site of Senator Robert F. Kennedy’s assassination. Other prominent schools include New Open World Academy, graded B by Niche, and UCLA Community School, which earned an A-minus. Both schools serve kindergarten through twelfth-grade students, offer many extracurriculars, from sports teams to student legal clinics, and provide an opportunity to earn college credit.
The Robert F. Community School has a digital entrance sign to display daily information.
There are gated entrances to the RFK Ambassador School Global Leadership in Koreatown.
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Seoul International Park and hiking near Koreatown
According to Leeks, there is little green space in Koreatown. “People don’t have yards, and there are not many parks,” she says. Of the few that are in the neighborhood Seoul International Park is the largest. Surrounded by the urban blocks of the neighborhood, the park, which itself is nearly a full city block, offers greenery and a break from the busy streets. It's also the home of the annual Korean Festival, Halloween Carnival and more. Locals also enjoy Shatto Recreation Center for its tennis and basketball courts as well as youth activities, from kids' nights out to soccer teams. Los Angeles is known for its scenic hiking, and the famous Griffith Park Trails are five miles north of Koreatown.
Ardmore Recreation Center at Seoul International Park in Koreatown.
Practice your swing at The City Golf in Koreatown.
There is a colorful playground at Seoul International Park in Koreatown.
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Written By
Josie Keeley
Photography Contributed By
Samuel Evans
Video By
Charles Kennedy
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Agents Specializing in this Area
Jane Xue Li
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
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Parks in this Area
Robert L Burns Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Madison West Park
Dog Park
Picnic Area
Playground
Harold A Henry Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Wilton Place Park
Picnic Area
Playground
Shatto Recreation Center
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Tennis
Seoul International Park
Baseball/Softball
Picnic Area
Trails
Transit
Airport
Bob Hope
21 min drive
Subway
Wilshire/Normandie Station
Subway
Wilshire/Western Station
Subway
Vermont/Beverly Station
Subway
Wilshire/Vermont Station
Bus
Western & 1st (Southbound)
Bus
8th & Irolo
Bus
6th & Catalina
Bus
Vermont & 8th St. (Ccw)
Bus
6th & Western (Eastbound)
Bus
Wilshire Eb & Crenshaw Fs
Bus
Wilshire & Alexandria
Reviews
Niche Reviews
4.284 Reviews
3.0Former Resident
4/18/2023Niche Review
Lived in Koreatown from 2019-2022 ... Great place for restaurants, cafes and food and it's very walkable but I had about 7 break ins during my stay and it's always dirty with many homeless tents .. Parking is a hit or miss ... few cool bars ... Not many parks or green spaces...many new buildings coming up .. in my opinion it's a great place to visit sometimes... but to live , I don't think it's worth it, especially now the prices of rent have gone up so much .I think the Pandemic affected it in bad way as well... I remember that back in 2014-15.. it was much nicer when I used to come and visit. Now it has become very sketchy area and it is full of trash everywhere
3.0Current Resident
6/13/2018Niche Review
Koreatown is a very diverse community. One is constantly surrounded by an amazing environment and group of people. Although its not the most innovative and "rich" look ing place, it is a very welcoming community.
5.0Current Resident
9/7/2018Niche Review
The diversity and friendliness of the area makes for a great community. I enjoy meeting new people and trying new things every day.
4.0Current Resident
5/16/2017Niche Review
koreatown is the transit place to be in. i love the multidiversity in culture. Such a busy place, although some parts are sketchy. I recommend this place if your going to nearby colleges or simply work. K-town is the center
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Koreatown
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Koreatown Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Koreatown, Sanford sell after 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 51 days. The median sale price for homes in Koreatown, Sanford over the last 12 months is $767,500, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Luxury Living at The Juniper! Spacious, sun-drenched 1,450sq.ft. Southwest corner unit in Mid-Wilshire/Koreatown. High ceilings and a bright, open living room. Expansive primary suite features a large walk-in closet and private en-suite. Two additional generous bedrooms and a second full bath. Elegantly appointed with classic hardwood flooring, in-unit washer/dryer, and a modern kitchen with
Charming 1-Bedroom Condo in the Heart of Koreatown! Welcome to Park Villas – a beautifully landscaped, garden-style community ideally situated in the vibrant Koreatown and Mid-Wilshire area. This spacious 1 bedroom, 1 full bathroom condo features 580 sq.ft. of comfortable living space, all on one level. Step inside to discover beautiful wood laminate flooring, new custom window treatments, and
Located in one of Los Angeles' most desirable neighborhoods, this stunning two-story, top-floor end-unit condo offers an exceptional blend of modern elegance and urban convenience. Nestled between Mid-Wilshire and Koreatown and adjacent to historic Hancock Park, this move-in-ready residence features two spacious bedrooms, two fully renovated bathrooms, and a versatile loft den, all within one of
Welcome home to this charming garden-filled condo community in the heart of Koreatown! This beautifully maintained 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo is move-in ready. Perfect for first-time buyers or savvy investors seeking rental income. Step into an open-concept living space that seamlessly blends the kitchen, dining, and living areas. The kitchen cabinets and bathroom have been recently refreshed with
Stylish Condo with Loft & Resort-Style Amenities in Prime Koreatown Location! Welcome to this bright and spacious top floor 1-bedroom + loft, 1-bath condo ideally situated in Koreatown, right on the edge of prestigious Hancock Park. Located in an impeccably-maintained 1990 building, residents enjoy desirable amenities including a welcoming lobby, on-site property manager, fully equipped fitness
We are pleased to present 975 S Ardmore Ave, a well-maintained and gated 10-unitapartment community located in the heart of Koreatown--one of Los Angeles' most vibrant and high-demand rental submarkets. Built in 1925, this character-rich property offers a desirable unit mix consisting of Six (1 bedroom +1 bathroom) units & Four (Studio)units, spread across a 4,830 square foot building situated on
Derrick VartanianLyon Stahl Investment Real Estate, Inc.
The Fenway Hall Apartments are located on the border of Koreatown and Hancock Park; Convenient to Miracle Mile & Hollywood. Shown by appt only; No Walk-Ins. **Advertised rent of $1384/mo is the net effective rent for a 13 month lease of $1499/mo with month 13 rent free. On Approved Credit.
One of Mid-Wilshire's finest 1920's buildings, The Gramercy Wilshire Apartments are situated just off Wilshire Blvd - Convenient to Hancock Park, Miracle Mile and Hollywood. Pics are of similar unit. Shown by appt Only; No Walk-Ins.
Welcome to your urban retreat in this modern style 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom townhouse, ideally situated in the heart of Koreatown. Discover a spacious, three-level residence with an open-concept layout. Renovated in 2021, the gourmet kitchen shines with sleek stainless steel appliances, modern finishes, and thoughtful design. The luxurious master suite offers a private retreat with an en-suite bath,
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
108,875
Median Age
38
Population Density
63 ppl/acre
Population under 18
19.5%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
13.3%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$49,090
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$67,990
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
76%
Below the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
38.4%
Advanced Degrees
9.7%
% Population in Labor Force
69.9%
On par with the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
14''
Average Winter Low Temperature
48°F
Average Summer High Temperature
83°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
64/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
94/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
80/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
