Israel LA Consulate to present safety strategies for Korean community

A new public-safety symposium hosted by the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles is drawing attention for its effort to present practical strategies for the Korean community’s safety. The event, set for Dec. 3 in Koreatown, aims to show how advanced technology and coordinated civic efforts can help communities strengthen their own protection.

Shared challenges between Korean and Israeli communities

Israel Bahar, Israel’s Consul General in Los Angeles, oversees the largest Israeli diplomatic office in the world outside the embassy in Washington, D.C. The consulate has more than 40 staff members and is based in a major building near the 405 Freeway in West L.A.

In an interview with the Korea Daily, Bahar explained the purpose behind the symposium and highlighted similarities between Korean Americans and the local Israeli community. He said both Korea and Israel have experienced centuries of foreign domination. In addition, he noted that each country has recently gained international recognition in culture, science and the arts. Therefore, he said, the two nations share a commitment to using diplomatic tools to reduce conflict within a complex global landscape.

Global tensions shape the event

Bahar also discussed current conditions in the Middle East. Although a cease-fire has been declared, he said “tensions cannot be eased,” pointing to Iran’s nuclear issues and diplomatic developments surrounding the Gaza conflict. According to him, these changes mark the most significant improvement since the crisis intensified two years ago. He said these global shifts also informed the decision to hold the symposium.

Turning to Los Angeles issues, Bahar expressed frustration over what he described as insufficient police response in recent incidents. He cited last year’s clashes between opposing demonstrators outside a Pico-Robertson neighborhood synagogue, saying many remember that “the LAPD took virtually no action,” which contributed to greater harm. He argued that this lapse represents a serious responsibility issue for the city and county and said police staffing and patrols must be strengthened.

Symposium aims to offer practical tools

Regarding the Dec. 3 event, Bahar said the topic is one the Korean community “urgently needs.” He added that top experts from Israel will present key insights and practical tools. In his view, the symposium will offer new alternatives for Korean Americans, who continue to face challenges tied to homelessness and still remember the lessons of the 1992 LA riots.

The public-safety symposium, hosted by the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles, will invite more than 100 Korean community leaders and will be held the morning of Dec. 3 in Koreatown.

BY BRIAN CHOI  [i.choi@koreadaily.com]