LA Korean American non-profits call for K-Town community center

October 1, 2015
A group of Los Angeles Korean American non-profits hold a press conference Wednesday in front of Los Angeles County's Department of Parks and Recreation calling for a community center's inclusion in a new planned government building in Koreatown.

A group of Los Angeles Korean American non-profits hold a press conference Wednesday in front of Los Angeles County’s Department of Parks and Recreation calling for a community center’s inclusion in a new planned government building in Koreatown.

By The Korea Times Los Angeles staff

A group of Los Angeles-based Korean American non-profit organizations are pushing for a community center to be included in a new county building to be constructed between 4th and 6th Streets on Vermont Avenue in Koreatown.

The non-profits — Koreatown Art & Recreation Center (K-ARC), Koreatown Youth + Community Center (KYCC) and the Korean American Coalition (KAC) — held a press conference Wednesday in front of Los Angeles County’s Department of Parks and Recreation.

K-ARC argued that Koreatown, which is the second-most densely populated region in the United States, is lacking in recreational spaces.

“There is no place for about 4,000 Koreatown youths to play in this neighborhood,” said Joanne Kim, a Koreatown resident of 10 years. “I want them to make a recreational area for residents to rest their minds and enjoy the space.”

“Whether a 30,000- to 40,000-square-foot community center is included in the new government building is up to the participation and determination of Koreatown residents,” said Grace Yoo, an attorney.

The organizations plan to deliver a formal request at a Los Angeles County Supervisor meeting on Oct. 13.