Koreatown, often referred to simply as K-Town, is a dynamic and culturally rich neighborhood located within the broader Mid Wilshire district of Los Angeles. Just 3 to 4 miles west of Downtown LA, Koreatown is one of the city’s most vibrant urban communities, known for its 24-hour energy, eclectic mix of cultures, and historic architectural landscape. Despite its name, the area is one of the most ethnically diverse in the city, with strong Korean, Latino, and Filipino influences shaping its food, art, and daily life.
While Koreatown’s modern identity is closely tied to the arrival of Korean immigrants in the 1960s and the establishment of Korean-owned businesses, its roots stretch much deeper. The broader area was originally developed in the 1890s by Gaylord Wilshire, the namesake of Wilshire Boulevard, who envisioned a grand thoroughfare connecting the city’s westward expansion. By the early 20th century, this corridor became one of Los Angeles’ most desirable addresses, with Wilshire Center evolving into a hub of commerce and glamour in the 1920s and 30s.
Today, Wilshire Center is bordered by Melrose Hill to the north, Westlake to the east, Koreatown to the south, and Hancock Park to the west. The area features a unique blend of historic Art Deco and Beaux-Arts buildings, such as the Wiltern Theatre, alongside modern high-rises and mixed-use developments. Many of these early 20th-century structures have been beautifully preserved and repurposed, creating a compelling architectural backdrop for contemporary urban life.
Koreatown is renowned for its round-the-clock lifestyle, with countless restaurants, karaoke bars, speakeasies, spas, and markets operating late into the night or even 24 hours. It is also one of the most walkable and densely populated areas in Los Angeles, with easy access to the Metro Purple Line, making it a prime location for commuters and city dwellers alike. Whether you're exploring the historic corridors of Wilshire Boulevard, sampling world-class Korean BBQ, or enjoying a rooftop cocktail with views of the Downtown skyline, Koreatown is a neighborhood that blends the past and present with unparalleled vibrancy and diversity.