Rare Koreatown Landmark Project Moves to Construction After Years of Delay

Construction of the long-awaited Olympic Gateway landmark in LA Koreatown is set to begin in earnest this fall, moving a long-delayed community project into the groundbreaking stage.

First proposed in 2008, the project had faced years of delays due to funding challenges and administrative procedures. With construction now imminent, anticipation is growing within the community for a symbolic structure representing Koreatown.

According to the Olympic Police Station Booster Association (OBA), the project is being overseen by LA Neighborhood Initiative (LANI), which has selected Korean American firm PUB Construction as the contractor. The company, led by Chris Lee (이창엽), received final approval from the City of Los Angeles last month and will build the structure based on a design completed in 2017 by JFAK.

The Olympic Gateway will be installed at the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Normandie Avenue. JFAK said the design represents “a new urban gateway symbolizing Korean identity and commemorating the long-standing friendship between LA and Korea.” The plan features two pillars connected by cables and LED lighting, with imagery inspired by the Taegeukgi and Korean culture displayed along the cables.

Although the project originated as a Koreatown-led initiative in 2008, it stalled for years due to funding issues, changes in project leadership, and required city approvals. Momentum resumed last February when LANI issued a public bid for construction.

OBA President Chang-Yeop Lee said LANI and PUB Construction signed the construction contract one to two months ago. He noted that securing key materials such as LED components and steel rebar is taking time, and that a groundbreaking ceremony could take place as early as two months from now, with an official commencement ceremony expected around October, after the LA Korean Festival.

Lee said about $2.6 million has been raised so far, but an additional $3 million is likely needed due to rising labor and material costs. He added that requests for additional support have been made to LA city officials and council offices, with positive responses so far, and called on the Korean American community to continue its support.

PUB Construction CEO Chris Lee said once construction begins, completion is expected within four to five months.

BY HYOUNGJAE KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]