K-Town’s New Look
I’ve lived in Koreatown, Los Angeles for two out of the three years I have lived in California. In these two years, at least two houses on my block have gone under demolition and multiple big shiny artsy looking apartment complexes have popped up on the busier streets equipped with coffee shops and other places for the newcomers to gather and mingle. The change is surely noticeable as people are seen walking outside later into the night as the community develops into a thriving city. There is no doubt that K-Town, a neighboring town to DTLA, is on the rise.
I’ve lived in Koreatown, Los Angeles for two out of the three years I have lived in California. In these two years, at least two houses on my block have gone under demolition and multiple big shiny artsy looking apartment complexes have popped up on the busier streets equipped with coffee shops and other places for the newcomers to gather and mingle. The change is surely noticeable as people are seen walking outside later into the night as the community develops into a thriving city. There is no doubt that K-Town, a neighboring town to DTLA, is on the rise.
Much of this vibrance is seen on Wilshire Avenue where many of Koreatown’s historically known buildings are located. Aside from these beautifully built buildings with impressively preserved art deco architecture, you can find newer developments and newly modernized buildings like that of the Platform 35 Market Hall; a trendy food hall expected to have a grand re-opening Wednesday, November 6th where they’ve sent out the invitation to check out their new look. With the addition of a 7-Eleven on the ground floor of the building, it is apparent this neighborhood is becoming increasingly walkable and much more convenient to its growing community. Many of the residents surrounding Platform 35 are excited about the new restaurants coming in. The Platform 35 is setting the tone for 2020 with a total of 7 eateries serving foods from all around the world in the food hall alone. It’s enough to make you wonder… Is Koreatown becoming the new and improved DTLA?
The Line Hotel which still stands across from Platform 35 was built in the 1960’s and to this day it continues to be a historic attraction, with the famous Alfred Coffee located inside, drawing in travelers from all around the world. There are also the local businesses, smaller colleges, and of course, a Starbucks all within a few hops, skips and steps away that attract the regular coffee shop office worker and student alike. Not to mention The Platform 35 Market Hall is built right above the metro entrance to the Wilshire/Normandie stop via the purple line which can get you to DTLA in under 9 minutes! Can we say hell yes to not having to deal with traffic and endless one-way street whirlwinds?!
There is a busy feeling slowly but surely increasing in K-town’s routine which begins around midafternoon during the lunchtime rush and sometimes goes well into the night. Especially during this year’s sport’s broadcastings available at the market hall: ESPN, Fox Sports, NBA, NHL, NFL, UFC, MLB, & Olympic Channel. In addition, we have movie nights, game nights, and more! Click here for list of events.
“I am personally loving the fresh energy in the neighborhood as its been brought to life in the few years I’ve been here. It’s exciting to know the neighborhood is expanding and developing!” – Nikki Mehbonu Blogger & Writer for P35