There’s a growing number of scorched commercial buildings and homes in LA Koreatown, causing residents’ discontent to mount.
Local inhabitants note that some structures have been left derelict for up to eight years, attracting homeless individuals and detracting from the neighborhood’s aesthetics. Yet, since many of these charred buildings are on private land, the city finds its hands tied.
Data from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) shows that in 2022, there were 94 reported building fires in the Pico-Union-Koreatown district, marking a 45% increase from the 65 in 2021. Annual averages for the preceding years were: 72 in 2020 and 2019, 75 in 2018, 65 in 2017, and 79 in 2016.
Though many fires result from accidental causes like electrical malfunctions, a growing portion in recent years remains unexplained. Some are believed to be caused by homeless people occupying the empty structures.
The number of such burned and subsequently abandoned buildings is on the rise. Notably, a major structure at the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Union Avenue, which caught fire in April 2015, has sat unused for eight years. Reports suggest its transformation into a hotel is underway, but the burned exterior is still present.
The OB Bear LA, an iconic spot in LA Koreatown which went up in flames in November 2020, has also remained unused for about three years. Initially, the proprietors estimated a few months for renovations, but they have since shifted their business, leaving the original site deserted.
Local residents lament the unsightly remnants and the influx of homeless individuals they attract. “It’s become so unattractive that many avoid the area,” commented one local living close to a fire-damaged commercial property, further noting its detrimental effect on adjacent businesses, such as indiscriminate waste disposal.
Insiders from the insurance sector hint at the complexity of restoration or demolition post-fire, often rooted in “causation and compensation.”
“Fire insurance claims can be delayed until the cause—whether it’s a structural flaw or deliberate act—is ascertained,” explained Jay Park, CEO of Wilshire Jay Park Insurance. “In commercial settings, disputes often arise between property owners and renters regarding fire insurance, culminating in legal battles.”
Park also highlighted that some opt for affordable fire insurance premiums with minimal compensation limits, which may not represent the structure’s actual worth, thus impeding restoration.
City intervention in privately-owned, abandoned properties is challenging. Yet, if such properties jeopardize public safety, action can be taken.
“Residents living near an abandoned site can petition or raise concerns with relevant city departments, prompting an investigation,” said Mark Lee, chairman of the Wilshire Center-Koreatown Neighborhood Council.
BY HYOUNGJAE KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]
