Korean Americans Push to Expand Seoul International Park in LA

Located in the heart of LA’s Koreatown, Seoul International Park is more than just an urban green space. It’s a cultural and emotional anchor for many in the Korean American community, offering both physical relief and a strong sense of belonging.

A Daily Routine, A Lifelong Bond

For Ki-Yeol Choi (79), the park is where he reaffirms his roots as an immigrant and finds both mental and physical balance. Since arriving in the U.S. 35 years ago, he has visited the park every single day for the past ten years without exception.

“There aren’t many parks in Koreatown where you can take a proper walk,” said Choi, emphasizing the park’s unique value. “My daily 20- to 30-minute walk is how I begin my day—it’s the most important routine I have.”

For Choi, walking is more than just exercise. It’s a time to organize his thoughts, find calm, and restore emotional balance. “In a time filled with negative news, even just walking brings comfort,” he said.

During his walks, Choi often thinks of his hometown in Seocho District, Seoul. “Even though it’s been 35 years since I immigrated, I find myself missing home more and more. When I walk in the park, the sound of leaves or the wind brings back memories of my childhood,” he added.

A Shared Space for Seniors and Community

The park also serves as a sanctuary for many seniors in the area, especially with the Koreatown Senior & Community Center located next door. “You often see other seniors walking here. Even if we don’t talk much, just sharing the same space brings emotional comfort,” Choi said.

He described Seoul International Park as “the largest park in Koreatown, the core of our community, and a space for emotional connection.”

The park hosts the annual Korean Festival and serves as a meeting point for senior walking groups. “It connects people,” he said. Choi hopes the walking paths will be extended and more green space added. “I want it to become a place that draws even more people,” he said.

“Many seniors have mobility issues and can’t travel far. We need more accessible green areas centered around this park,” he added. He stressed that developing Seoul International Park is critical, given the overall lack of green space in Koreatown.

“It would be great if we had more trees and slightly longer walking trails,” said Choi. “Then this could be a place that gives even more people the energy they need.”

A Platform for Cultural Identity

For Seoyoung Kim (32), who has lived in Koreatown for seven years, Seoul International Park is closely tied to the annual Korean Festival, which she eagerly attends every fall.

“If it weren’t for Seoul International Park, I wouldn’t be able to feel such a strong sense of Korean culture in the middle of the city,” said Kim.

The festival transforms the park into a vibrant celebration. The area fills with the aroma of street foods like tteokbokki and chicken skewers, alongside booths selling Korean specialties like gim (seaweed) and omija (schisandra berry) juice. “The smells, the laughter, and the K-pop music make it feel like a regional or college festival back in Korea,” she said.

To Kim, Seoul International Park is more than a rest space. It’s a “community platform” where Korean Americans come together to share culture and reaffirm identity. “There’s something very special about Korean Americans coming together in a park like this to celebrate their shared heritage,” she said.

She added that she used to visit the park only during the festival, but now also goes for walks or light exercise. “I hope this park becomes an even more familiar and meaningful part of everyday life for Korean Americans.”

BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]