Explore the vibrant tapestry of shopping experiences that await in the heart of Los Angeles – Koreatown.
Situated south of Hollywood, between Downtown L.A. and the affluent west side of the city, Koreatown is in a great central location.
Sprinkled throughout this dynamic neighborhood, the shopping scene transcends the ordinary, offering a unique fusion of Korean and American influences. From bustling markets and fashion boutiques to cutting-edge beauty stores and traditional crafts, Koreatown LA stands as a shopping haven, where diverse cultures converge in a kaleidoscope of products and experiences.
We’ll cover the bustling streets and eclectic malls, where each storefront tells a tale of heritage, innovation, and the ever-evolving spirit of this iconic district.
Whether you’re seeking the latest K-beauty trends, delectable treats, or one-of-a-kind finds, Koreatown LA promises a shopping adventure like no other.
Over the past decade, Los Angeles Koreatown has solidified its reputation not only as a vibrant nightlife, dining, and entertainment district but also as a prime shopping location. Koreatown is now one of the most densely populated neighborhoods on the West Coast, so be prepared for a lively experience.
1. Koreatown Galleria
Since 2001, Koreatown Galleria has stood out for its diverse array of shops, restaurants, and services tailored to both the Korean and Korean-American community, as well as those intrigued by the culture and its products.
Within the mall, one can find Korean grocery stores, beauty and skincare boutiques, fashion outlets, and various eateries specializing in Korean cuisine.
Despite being an older building, the Galleria on Olympic boasts a spacious layout when compared to other shopping centers in the Koreatown district, such as Koreatown Plaza or City Center on 6th. This is essential for visitors prone to claustrophobia in more confined spaces.
The Galleria on Olympic is known for its Kpop store, food court, sizable Asian supermarket in the basement, and Korean beauty products.
While it may lack the size of Koreatown Plaza and the modern allure of newer shopping complexes, Koreatown Galleria stands out with a bright and airy interior, providing an alternative to the sometimes less inviting streetscape near Western and Olympic.
Be sure to explore the underground supermarket, a signature style of Korea. You can find all the Korean dishes as well as an entire wall dedicated to kimchi and delectable offerings from local mom-and-pop restaurants. The first and second floors house an array of small clothing boutiques, a music store, with a spacious food court featuring diverse culinary options on top.
Main shops: Galleria Market, Food Gallery, Cosmetic World
3250 W Olympic Blvd Ste 400, Los Angeles, CA 90006 USA
2. Koreatown Plaza
The first shopping mall built in Koreatown with 70 retail stores is an oldie but goodie. It has everything under the sun including banking, dry-cleaning, bakery, cafe, supermarket, children’s play area, and an international food court showcasing Korean cuisine.
Koreatown Plaza is one of the most popular shopping malls in Koreatown that complements the vibrant energy of the surrounding area with a well-designed space that fosters a dynamic atmosphere while ensuring a high level of security for both daytime and nighttime shopping experiences.
A highlight is the H-Mart situated on the first floor. Additionally, the plaza features hair salons and small kiosks offering various goods. Visitors often head towards the food court after their shopping ventures, enticed by its assortment of distinct restaurants. For those seeking home essentials, the third floor houses a large home shopping store stocked with necessities like blankets, pots, pans, and more.
Convenient access to all the stores within Koreatown Plaza is facilitated by a secure parking structure that seamlessly connects to all three shopping levels through arcades leading to the mall and the central court. A glass-enclosed elevator and a pair of escalators situated in the spacious central court make for easy access of the space.
Natural light filtering through skylights nurtures trees and plants, creating a refreshing environment throughout the center. The overall ambiance of Koreatown Plaza is enhanced by comfortable seating areas and seasonal flowers, providing an attractive backdrop for the bright and colorful storefronts.
Visitors may enter on James Wood Boulevard (also known as 9th Street) and get three hours of parking free with validation.
Main shops: H-Mart, Koreatown Plaza Food Court, Artbox
928 S Western Ave Ste 300, Los Angeles, CA 9000 USA
3. Madang
Madang Mall is a three-level shopping and entertainment complex located just north of Wilshire Boulevard on the western side of Western Avenue.
“MaDang,” which translates to Courtyard in Korean, is constructed in the shape of a courtyard with Korean design elements. The ground level features a sizable outdoor open space at its center.
Madang Mall is conveniently located at the corner of S Western and 6th, making it easily identifiable. It’s accessible from Manhattan Place (not directly from S Western) with a parking garage that makes parking a breeze, although ample street parking is also available.
On the first floor, you’ll find a Daiso alongside a bakery. Within the courtyard, there are additional dining options, including SomiSomi, and a CGV cinema on the top floor. The courtyard is also home to charming shops specializing in stationery and a K-pop store, providing additional attractions to explore.
Main shops: H-Mart, Paris Baguette, SomiSomi, Sul & Beans, CGV Cinemas
621 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005 USA
4. City Center on 6th
While H-Mart is the star here at this tri-level mall on 6th Street by Alexandria Avenue, behind Equitable on Wilshire, there are many hidden gems if you look a bit deeper.
Other establishments such as clothing stores, salons, a vitamin shop, and direct access to the parking lot are waiting for those who venture further. Moving on to the second and third floors, you’ll find more shops. Notably, on the third floor, Hanshin Pocha is located towards the end, providing a more spacious and less crowded environment compared to other pojangmacha.
The City Golf offers some after shopping or dining recreation in the way of virtual golf (“screen golf” as they say in the motherland).
Other notable dining options include Concerto Bakery Cafe, Cafe Mooi, and Orange Tree Cafe.
Main shops: Hanshin Pocha, The City Golf, Kstar Kpop store, H-Mart
3500 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 9002 USA
5. Oxford Center Plaza
Not to be confused with the smaller strip-mall known as “Oxford Plaza” by 2nd Street in North Koreatown, this large strip mall on 8th Street by Western Avenue is formally named Oxford Center Plaza.
It’s a good-sized strip mall housing various dining options, including establishments like Honey Night Pub and Slurpin Ramen Bar. Also, you can find a health food store, hair and beauty salon, clothing store, and more within the plaza. Notably, the bar Potions & Poisons boasts a noraebang hidden inside.
Parking can be a bit of a challenge during the day, but there is valet service in the evenings. Things can get rowdy at night so come for the food and stay for the show.
Main shops: Honey Night, Slurpin Ramen Bar, Potions & Poisons
3548 W 8th St #3500, Los Angeles, CA 90005 USA
6. Brown Derby Plaza
Located on the edge of K-town, this smaller shopping structure has been around almost as long as Koreatown itself.
Established in 1926, the original restaurant (rumored to be the spot where Cobb Salad was invented) located at 3427 Wilshire Boulevard holds its fame primarily for its unique and distinctive hat shape.
During the era, whimsical architecture was in vogue, and this particular restaurant was crafted to captivate the attention of passing motorists. After decades in business, a fire and recession nearly saw the building demolished.
Local preservationists saved the day, and convinced developers to remove and restore the derby hat portion of the building. The rest of the restaurant was demolished and replaced with a shopping center which is now home to a diverse array of businesses and restaurants including a screen batting place, which is a lot of fun after a few drinks.
The hat-shaped building still stands on the third floor as a reminder of the area’s storied past.
Main shops: Strikezone, Chang Hwa Dang LA(CHD), Bacchus Tables, Boiling Crab
3377 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010 USA
7. California Market
Established in 1987, California Market, AKA Gaju Market, stands as the first Korean supermarket in Southern California. Offering a reasonably priced and diverse selection of international goods, they created a unique Korean-American shopping experience. From locally crafted cocktails to in-house-made Kimchi, California Market seamlessly blends two worlds.
The market on the first floor is just the beginning of a multi-faceted experience. On the second floor, customers can explore clothing and beauty stores. Ascending to the third floor reveals a delightful array of eateries, accompanied by ample space for children to play. Notably, Two Hands Corndog, situated separately from the food court on the roof is not to be missed.
The shopping center offers free parking.
Main shops: California Market, Two Hands Corndog
450 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020 USA
8. Omni Plaza
Omni Plaza, not to be confused with the Omni Hotel 5 miles east, is a small but intimate mini mall primarily dominated by a variety of restaurants.
The dining options include dessert spots like Anko Cafe and Boba Bear, as well as other eateries featuring a kebab shop, a kimbap store, and a grill. Amidst these, you can also find a hair salon and a dental clinic.
Parking is a bit limited but there’s affordable valet parking available.
Main shops: Anko Cafe, Boba Bear, The Kimbap
414 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020 USA
9. Olympic Shopping Center
Situated close to Seoul International Park, the small but authentic Olympic Shopping Center houses a variety of stores. Notably, the well-known Wawa bar/karaoke establishment is a prominent feature of the center.
Other offerings include a furniture shop, a shoe repair service, a clothing store, an acupuncture clinic, and various hair salons. Reflecting the classic charm of Koreatown, this locale is an excellent destination for key and shoe repairs. In keeping with the rules for all Korean shopping centers in the US, there’s an optometrist and travel agency.
Parking is easy in the rear.
Main shops: Wawa, Blue Haus
3053 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006 USA
10. Western Village Square
Western Village Square is the “mini-mall” on the southwest corner of Third Street and Western Avenue in the 90020 zip code.
It may be considered lacking in size, but offers a diverse array of places to eat and drink. You can get Pad Thai and High Tea all in the same afternoon. Western Village Square further distinguishes itself by hosting a variety of beauty and hair-focused establishments such as salons, spas, and foot massage services, instead of being predominantly filled with restaurants.
However, you can still find culinary options like the coveted Korean fried chicken restaurant. Additionally, miscellaneous shops include a ballet studio and a clothing store.
Parking is free and offers a nice view of LA.
Main shops: Rose & Blanc, MyStylist Hair Salon, Chicken Day
301 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020 USA
11. New Rodeo Galleria
Not as swanky as the Beverly Hills version, but New Rodeo Galleria has a lot to offer in the way to Korean shops and restaurants.
Located right across from Koreatown Plaza, this place is huge and full of delicious eateries.
Within Rodeo Galleria, you’ll find a compact yet inviting food court and bakery. BCD Tofu House, Eight Korean BBQ, and various other dining options are available as well.
Gold Optometry is also known for providing fast and friendly service. Where else in the country besides K-town can you have authentic Korean food while you wait for your glasses to be fixed?
Adjacent to it is a spacious Korean beauty and makeup store worth exploring. Unfortunately, things have gone downhill since Covid and many stores are closed.
Parking is conveniently located in front of stores.
Main shops: Eight Korean BBQ, Gold Optometry, BCD Tofu House, Rodeo Cosmetics, Madang Noodles
833 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005 USA
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