A Koreatown homeless encampment on a privately owned lot has expanded into a settlement-like area, leaving nearby residents fearful as the City of Los Angeles says it cannot intervene because the site is private property.
On September 12, the lot on Manhattan Place between 7th and 8th streets was filled with tents, trash, and discarded furniture, with wires pulled from a streetlight stretched across the road to power the encampment. Residents said the space, once empty, now resembles a small village.
Neighbors described constant noise, fights, and safety hazards. Ayce Ugun, who lives in the nearby Audrey Apartments, said, “A fire set by the homeless once spread to a vehicle. I’ve also witnessed what looked like drug transactions.” Another resident, Sasha, recalled, “Two months ago there was only one tent, but now it’s a full camp. There was even an incident where both a BMW and a Prius burned.”
Mark, who moved into a nearby apartment two months ago, said, “Within a week of moving in, the front door was broken and someone broke into my home. I reported it to the police, but nothing changed.”…