Does London Have a Koreatown?

By Alice Nichols

London is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, with various ethnic enclaves scattered throughout the city. One question that often arises is whether London has a Koreatown, similar to cities like Los Angeles or New York.

While London does not have an officially designated Koreatown, there are several areas in the city that have a significant Korean presence. The largest concentration of Korean businesses can be found in New Malden, a suburb located in the borough of Kingston upon Thames.

New Malden has been dubbed “Little Korea” due to its high population of Korean residents and businesses. The area boasts several Korean supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes, making it a hub for those looking to experience Korean culture and cuisine.

One of the most popular destinations in New Malden is the Korea Foods Supermarket. This massive store stocks a wide range of Korean ingredients and products, including fresh produce, snacks, and traditional sauces. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in cooking Korean food at home.

In addition to food shops, there are also several Korean beauty stores and salons in New Malden. These stores offer a range of cosmetics and skincare products from popular Korean brands like Innisfree and Etude House.

While New Malden may be the most well-known area for Koreans in London, there are also other pockets of Korean culture throughout the city. The West End has several Korean restaurants serving up delicious dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice bowls) and bulgogi (marinated grilled beef).

Another area with a growing Korean community is Golders Green in northwest London. While not as established as New Malden, Golders Green has several Korean eateries as well as shops selling traditional clothing and accessories.

In conclusion, while London may not have an official Koreatown like some other cities around the world do, there are still plenty of places to experience Korean culture within the city. Whether you’re looking to try some authentic Korean food or stock up on beauty products, London has something to offer for fans of Korean culture.