Los Angeles is rapidly emerging as one of the hottest destinations on social media platforms like YouTube.
Thanks to the efforts of popular Korean stars, influencers, and Korean-American YouTubers, the city’s appeal is growing, making it an even more attractive travel spot. Beyond the well-known tourist attractions, lesser-known gems like local eateries in Koreatown and unique spots around the city are being highlighted, drawing more Korean visitors.
Recently, singer Rain visited a popular Korean BBQ spot in Koreatown called “Ahgassi Gopchang,” which is run by his friend. Known for its long lines, especially among foreign fans due to BTS’s popularity, Rain commented, “You have to wait in line to eat at any Korean restaurant in town,” reflecting the impact of the Korean wave (Hallyu).
He also made a stop at Muscle Beach near Venice, an outdoor gym popular with bodybuilders, showcasing LA’s healthy and vibrant lifestyle.
Even small local businesses in LA are becoming trending content for social media creators. TV personality Kim Na-young explored the trendy cafés of Silver Lake and the fashionable shopping avenue of Melrose, immersing herself in LA’s hip culture.
Former Major League Baseball player Lee Dae-ho visited Dodger Stadium, a familiar landmark for Korean Americans, giving baseball fans a virtual tour and further boosting LA’s appeal as a sports city.
Fullerton resident Jang Eun-joo remarked, “It’s fascinating to see places I frequently visit as a local being introduced from a fresh perspective to Koreans through YouTube. Sometimes, it feels like tourists from Korea know more than the locals.”
The statistics back up this trend. According to the LA Tourism & Convention Board, approximately 260,000 Koreans visited Los Angeles last year, with more than 20,000 arriving each month. Korean tourists now rank fifth in nationality-based visitor numbers, following Mexico, Canada, China, and the United Kingdom.
In response to this growing interest, the LA Tourism Board hosted a special event at Dodger Stadium in May for members of the Korean travel industry.
Influencers living in LA and exploring the city’s charms, particularly in Koreatown, are also gaining attention. One such influencer is “loculize_la,” which introduces hidden gem restaurants and hot spots across LA. Known for resonating with the younger generation, he is praised for his youthful reinterpretation of LA’s diverse culture through his content.
With nearly a million subscribers, popular YouTuber “Wonji’s Daily Life” spent time living in Koreatown, sharing content such as “Living Alone in LA,” “Getting a U.S. Driver’s License,” “Working as a Carpenter,” and “How to Navigate Koreatown.” She offered an unfiltered glimpse into everyday life in LA.
Creators covering LA come from various walks of life—students, flight attendants, housewives, professionals, and lawyers—each sharing their unique perspectives. Channels like “Travel Sigan (time),” “Insane,” “Mkajjohn (American guy John),” “Mini Home,” “Something Gaga,” and “Everyday Lia” bridge the gap between Korea and the U.S. through videos, travel content, and insights into life in LA.
Viewers have responded enthusiastically, with comments like, “I want to go stargazing at Joshua Tree National Park,” “The California sun is so bright, the state is truly blessed,” and “I want to try In-N-Out, only available in California.”
Jung-soo Kim, a travel agency owner in Las Vegas, observed, “LA’s tourism has increased significantly over the last three to four years as YouTube content has surged. Even Las Vegas is benefitting, as it’s within driving distance from LA. While Koreans think they know America well, even local favorites like In-N-Out are becoming popular content because there was such a lack of video content before.”
Now, YouTubers are even addressing social issues in LA. With so much global attention, there’s no shortage of content.
“Heechulism,” a YouTuber with over a million subscribers, recently shared his experience in Koreatown, capturing the reality of life in LA. After dining at a local Korean restaurant, he highlighted the city’s homeless problem in a conversation with his friend Jenna, who commented, “It’s too scary to walk around at night,” showing viewers that LA is more than just a glamorous city.
BY YOONJAE JUNG, YOUNGNAM KIM [jung.yoonjae@koreadaily.com]
