A large homeless encampment that had been established for an extended period at the corner of Wilshire Boulevard and St. Andrews Place in the heart of Los Angeles’ Koreatown was abruptly cleared today (the 26th) by city authorities.

Forklifts were deployed to the scene to forcibly remove tents and structures, drawing public attention as a rare example of the City of LA using physical force, which it had generally avoided in the past. The city had previously posted evacuation notices as a warning, and the removal proceeded according to official procedures.

After the clearance was completed, temporary fencing was installed around the building to prevent homeless encampments from being established again.

In a telephone conversation with this newspaper, LA City Commissioner Steve Kang stated, “This action is not simply about removal, but the first step in implementing a new homeless encampment solution.” He added that the City of LA is developing more sustainable housing alternatives and street maintenance plans.

Meanwhile, the Pierce National Building located at the intersection of Wilshire and Western near Koreatown is also showing signs of change. This building, owned by Jamison Properties, had been neglected with graffiti and plastic film covering it until recently.

“The plan is to reopen it as an office building by the end of this year. Work to remove graffiti and renovate the exterior will begin soon,” Commissioner Steve Kang revealed.

These measures are bringing substantial changes to issues that have long been considered problems in Koreatown, with particular attention being paid to the active role of Commissioner Steve Kang.