“I’ve given up on evening business due to safety concerns. With customers disappearing, opening the store doesn’t even cover labor costs.”
On June 14, as nationwide “No Kings Day” anti-Trump protests swept the U.S. amid federal immigration crackdowns, Los Angeles’ Koreatown was noticeably quieter than usual. Typically bustling with weekend crowds during the summer vacation season following Memorial Day, Koreatown has been directly impacted by residents’ fears of unrest caused by the protests.

Fearing a repeat of the large-scale protests that hit Koreatown on the night of June 11, many Korean residents avoided going out, and numerous Korean businesses closed early, forgoing weekend evening operations. Hispanic and elderly Korean pedestrians, who usually fill the streets during the daytime, were absent, and businesses and restaurants in the area saw customer numbers drop to less than half of normal.

Large shopping centers in Koreatown increased security personnel to create a safer environment for customers, but their efforts fell short. Korean business owners noted that consumer confidence drives spending, but the current atmosphere, marked by ongoing crackdowns and protests, makes it impossible for people to feel comfortable dining out or shopping. They expressed concerns that prolonged unrest could lead to a wave of closures in Koreatown, where the economy is already struggling.

Not only Korean customers but also other key consumer groups, such as Hispanics and Whites, have reduced their outings and shopping. Downtown LA, home to federal buildings and courthouses, has become a focal point for large-scale protests, with a “curfew” imposed on late-night activities, causing businesses to suffer significant revenue losses.

A Korean restaurant owner in Downtown’s Little Tokyo area reported, “Sales have plummeted by more than 50%. There are no customers in the evenings, and with safety concerns, we’ve closed early and given up on evening business for days.”
Over the past decade, Little Tokyo has transformed into a popular destination for Koreans, Japanese, Chinese, and Americans due to extensive redevelopment and commercial revitalization. However, the current protests have exposed its “geographic disadvantage” due to its proximity to government offices.

Some in the Korean community are even expressing fears of a repeat of the 1992 LA riots (4.29 Incident). While police presence during the June 11 Koreatown protests prevented major looting or damage to Korean businesses, many Koreans remain skeptical about whether law enforcement can guarantee protection if larger protests target Koreatown in the future. As one of LA’s most vibrant retail hubs, Koreatown remains vulnerable to looting and arson threats from protesters.
A Korean restaurant owner lamented, “The restaurant industry has been struggling since the COVID-19 pandemic, with rising labor and ingredient costs forcing us to raise prices. This has led to fewer customers and lower sales, and we’re barely holding on. If this situation drags on, I’m afraid we won’t even be able to cover rent.”

Southern California’s tourism industry, a pillar of the regional economy, is also taking a direct hit. Tour companies have suspended visits to popular attractions like Hollywood and Downtown LA, adjusting tour schedules and canceling bus stops. Korean tour operators reported that Korean visitors are postponing or canceling trips to LA due to safety concerns stemming from the protests.

The Korean community argues that small retail businesses are bearing the brunt of the immigration crackdowns, raising criticism of the hardline policies of the Trump administration. Economists warn that as immigration enforcement expands to industries like clothing manufacturing, construction, and agriculture, consumers will face higher prices for clothing, housing, and food. This could exacerbate inflation, potentially leading to sustained high interest rates.

By Reporter Cho Hwan-dong