Thefts, including shoplifting, are surging again in LA-area businesses, including Korean markets and retail stores, causing significant distress for shop owners. Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in shoplifting incidents, as well as theft and pickpocketing targeting shoppers.

For example, at LA HanNam Chain on Olympic Boulevard in Koreatown, the store has been capturing images of suspects on CCTV and posting them on a transparent wall at the entrance. According to these notices, thefts have continued recently. On July 11, a man presumed to be white or Hispanic stole items, followed by another theft by a black male on July 12. Prior incidents were also captured on CCTV on June 17, June 19, and July 30.

A representative from LA HanNam Chain stated, "During busy times, employees are overwhelmed, making it easy for thieves to sneak around the register area. We cannot monitor every customer and every route, so some thefts are unavoidable."

The impact of these crimes is particularly severe for small businesses, and there are also instances where thieves target customers' personal belongings rather than store items.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) data from January to August of this year, there have been 561 theft-related incidents in markets. This represents an increase compared to previous years, with 576 cases in 2020, 354 cases in 2021, 440 cases in 2022, and 560 cases in 2023. This year's incidents include 338 cases of shoplifting, 190 general thefts, and 22 pickpocketing cases.

Theft occurrences are not limited to store interiors but also happen in parking lots. Additionally, there have been about 100 armed robbery incidents. These crimes often result in significant financial losses.

Law enforcement and experts recommend various preventive measures, including improving store layout and design (e.g., open floor plans, avoiding high shelves), enhancing surveillance systems (e.g., cameras, mirrors), maintaining regular communication with customers, training staff, securing merchandise (e.g., locking displays, security tags), and posting warning notices.

For shoppers, it's advised to be cautious with their belongings while loading items into their vehicles and leaving the parking lot. They should avoid leaving valuables on shopping carts, keep items with them until they transfer everything to their vehicle, lock the car doors immediately after getting in, and report any vehicles without license plates to security.



<Hyungseok Han>