Residents in Los Angeles’ Koreatown are voicing frustration and fear as a homeless encampment on South Manhattan Place has grown into what they describe as a “tiny city.”

The site, located between 7th and 8th streets, first began to form in May with just a handful of tents. But in the months since, the area has expanded into a sprawling settlement, complete with large makeshift structures, visible piles of trash, and, according to neighbors, criminal activity.

Aerial footage captured by Sky5 showed the size of the encampment, surrounded on all sides by apartment buildings and small businesses. What once appeared to be a temporary camp has now evolved into a more permanent urban campsite, raising alarm among locals.

Residents report safety concerns

Nearby residents say the situation has deteriorated rapidly. One woman told KTLA that she has witnessed property destruction, drug sales, and even violent incidents.

“They blew up two cars,” said Sasha, a Koreatown resident. “It started off as a clean tent area, and then going to the store, they were passing drugs in broad daylight — right in front of my daughter.”

Others have raised concerns about fire hazards and electrical safety. Multiple residents reported that people inside the encampment have run extension cords across the street to tap into nearby buildings for power.

City officials respond

The growth of the encampment has caught the attention of city leaders, though the fact that the property is privately owned complicates the response.

Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement acknowledging the seriousness of the situation and promised action.

“It is entirely unacceptable for private property owners to allow their lots to become a nuisance and a danger to the community,” Bass said. “All necessary City departments are responding to this location to hold the owner accountable and to keep the community safe. Outreach workers are visiting the site to engage with the unhoused.”

Growing pressure on city policies

The Koreatown encampment highlights the broader challenges Los Angeles faces as homelessness continues to rise. While the city has increased funding for shelters, outreach programs, and housing initiatives, residents in affected neighborhoods say change is not coming fast enough.

For those living nearby, daily life has been upended by the camp’s expansion. “We don’t feel safe walking outside anymore,” one resident shared. “It feels like the city has abandoned us.”

As the standoff between residents, property owners, and city officials continues, the Koreatown encampment remains both a symbol of Los Angeles’ housing crisis and a flashpoint for community tensions.