Raids in the city’s Fashion District disrupt Korean-owned businesses, threatening economic collapse amid worker shortages and rallies
A wave of immigration raids in Los Angeles’ Fashion District, commonly known as “The Santee Alley” or “Java Market”, has sparked anxiety and economic disruption among Korean-American merchants, with many shuttering their stores in fear of further crackdowns.
Last Friday, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted coordinated raids across the district, detaining more than 40 undocumented immigrants, including over 20 workers at a Korean-owned wholesale clothing business.
The raids also extended to nearby locations such as a Home Depot, prompting protests throughout the city and raising concerns within the immigrant business community.
“There’s barely a soul on the streets. Some stores haven’t reopened since the weekend,” said Yoon, a 62-year-old Korean-American merchant who has run a women’s fashion store in the area for 30 years. “We’re scared they’ll raid us again.”
