A Koreatown homeless encampment on a privately owned lot has expanded into a settlement-like area, leaving nearby residents fearful as the City of Los Angeles says it cannot intervene because the site is private property.
On September 12, the lot on Manhattan Place between 7th and 8th streets was filled with tents, trash, and discarded furniture, with wires pulled from a streetlight stretched across the road to power the encampment. Residents said the space, once empty, now resembles a small village.
Neighbors described constant noise, fights, and safety hazards. Ayce Ugun, who lives in the nearby Audrey Apartments, said, “A fire set by the homeless once spread to a vehicle. I’ve also witnessed what looked like drug transactions.” Another resident, Sasha, recalled, “Two months ago there was only one tent, but now it’s a full camp. There was even an incident where both a BMW and a Prius burned.”
Mark, who moved into a nearby apartment two months ago, said, “Within a week of moving in, the front door was broken and someone broke into my home. I reported it to the police, but nothing changed.”
His parents, a Korean American couple visiting from Toronto, said they were shocked by the scale of the encampment and told their son not to spend time outside.
One resident of the encampment, April, said she lived there with her husband and that about 15 people were staying on the lot. Track marks were visible on her arms, and she warned reporters, “Don’t come closer,” while speaking incoherently.
Local officials say resolving the issue is complicated because the property is privately owned. Los Angeles City Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky said the city is “tying its own hands” due to complex procedures. City agencies have ordered the owner to remove trash, increase security, and clean graffiti, while the Public Works Department plans to add protective covers to streetlight equipment.
According to an ABC7 report on September 12, the lot is owned by a limited liability company registered in Delaware. Officials said the owner has agreed to post “No Trespassing” signs, which would allow the Los Angeles Police Department to classify the occupation as illegal and remove those living there.
BY YEONGCHAE SONG [song.yeongchae@koreadaily.com]
AND YOONJAE JUNG [jung.yoonjae@koreadaily.com]
