A new type of theft targeting Korean Americans is spreading across Koreatown, prompting caution among grocery shoppers.
According to a report on July 19, a Korean-American woman in her 70s, surnamed Kim, was burglarized in Koreatown approximately two months ago, losing more than $3,000.
On May 25, around 9:45 a.m., Kim was returning home from early morning prayers at church and stopped at Hannam Chain in Los Angeles Koreatown to buy groceries. After shopping, Kim left her luxury handbag on the front passenger seat of her Volvo car and loaded her groceries into the trunk. As she got into her car to leave, a Hispanic woman approached Kim and began talking to her.
The well-dressed woman, appearing to be in her 20s, reportedly said in a friendly tone, “I think there’s a problem with your tire. I think you should come out and check it out because it could be dangerous if you keep driving like this.”
Kim, not seeing a tire warning light on the dashboard but swayed by the woman’s friendly tone, stepped out of the car to check the tire. After confirming the tires were in good shape, Kim informed the woman that “Everything’s fine” and got back into the car, only to find that the car wouldn’t start. She then realized her purse, containing her car keys, cell phone, house keys, wallet, and about $500 in cash, was gone.
“I didn’t pay attention to other details because she was so polite and nice,” Kim said. “I couldn’t believe it happened so fast.” The total damage was more than $3,000.
Kim mentioned knowing at least four other people who experienced similar incidents. The suspects seem to work in pairs, with one drawing attention from the victims while the other steals valuables.
“I reported it to the police, but they didn’t actively investigate it,” Kim added. “I hope no one else has to experience this.”
Authorities and community leaders are urging residents to be cautious and aware of their surroundings, especially when approached by strangers.
BY JOONHO CHOI, HOONSIK WOO [choi.joonho1@koreadaily.com]
