Korean National Association in Los Angeles shares the history of Koreatown.

The Korean National Association in Los Angeles honors the history and development of Koreatown, a district known as a 'home away from home' for the Korean community. The narrative begins with the immigration of independence activist Dosan Ahn Chang Ho and his family to the United States in 1902, who eventually settled on Bunker Hill. Their establishment of the Korean Presbyterian Church and the Korean National Association on Jefferson Boulevard served as the foundational pillars around which the Koreatown district gradually formed. Following the Hart-Celler Act of 1965, the community experienced significant growth as thousands of immigrants joined loved ones, diversifying the area. Businessman Lee Hi Duk played a pivotal role in the neighborhood's development by opening the Olympic Market in 1968 to address a lack of Korean grocery options. His vision extended to establishing 'Korean Village' and the VIP Plaza, featuring Korean-owned businesses and the VIP Palace restaurant, which became a center for hosting events and meetings. Lee's dedication to making Koreatown a true home rather than just a business district led to formal recognition by Los Angeles County in 1980, including the installation of a district sign in 1982. Despite the devastating impact of the LA Riots, which caused widespread damage and forced many businesses to close, residents came together to rebuild. Younger Korean-Americans and South Korean investors invested in the area during the 1990s, helping to restore livelihoods. Today, Koreatown thrives as a vibrant hub of Korean culture, supported by global interest in Korean entertainment and cuisine, standing as a testament to the community's resilience and rich history.