The Korean Language Interpretation Program (KLIP) at the LAPD's Olympic Police Station, which began in April last year, has exceeded one year of operation and is receiving high praise for significantly improving accessibility to public safety services for the Korean community. This program, which briefly existed in the past but was discontinued and revived last year through collaboration between the Korean community and the police, has assisted with over 2,000 reports and complaints, effectively lowering the barriers that Koreans faced when communicating in English at the police station.

At the same time, as it operates purely on volunteer efforts, challenges remain in securing personnel and ensuring institutional stability for its sustainability. According to statistics from the LA Korean Association, a total of 2,023 reports and complaints were processed through KLIP from April 2024 to mid-May 2025. This equates to an average of about 170 cases per month, meaning dozens to hundreds of Korean residents visited the station each month with interpretation support.

By category of crime and incident, theft topped the list with over 400 cases. Other categories included vehicle accidents (over 120 cases), vandalism (over 100 cases), financial fraud (over 100 cases), assault (over 70 cases), domestic violence (over 50 cases), threats (over 50 cases), property damage (over 50 cases), and more. Reports classified under "other" categories, such as crime witnessing tips, missing persons reports, sexual harassment, scams, noise complaints, and miscellaneous, totaled over 460 cases.

Additionally, "general inquiries and complaints" were numerous, with about 600 cases, primarily involving simple matters like traffic ticket processing, department guidance, and homeless-related issues that were difficult to resolve independently due to language barriers. Jeff Lee, Executive Director of the LA Korean Association, evaluated, “These figures hold more than statistical significance. There were many instances in the Korean community where reports were delayed due to language issues, but the interpretation program is lowering this ‘silent barrier.’” He particularly emphasized that the program's stable operation for over a year was due to the dedication of consistent volunteers. Lee explained, “There are currently about 12 registered volunteers, with around 5 working regularly at least twice a week, essentially sustaining the program.” He added, “Despite no financial compensation, they are motivated by the fulfillment of helping fellow Koreans through volunteering.”

KLIP is provided from Monday to Saturday, divided into morning (9:00 AM–12:00 PM) and afternoon (2:00 PM–5:00 PM) sessions. The schedule changes every two weeks, so it is essential to check the posted timetable on the official website (www.kafla.info/klip-schedule) (www.kafla.info/klip-schedule) before visiting the station. However, as KLIP operates on a pure volunteer system, it has its limitations. The primary issue is a shortage of personnel. The current pool is 12 volunteers, but only a limited number can commit frequently, and sudden absences occur due to personal circumstances. Nevertheless, the program's achievements over the past year are clear. It has broadened pathways for the Korean community to report crimes promptly and respond through formal procedures, which, according to those involved, enhances trust between the police and the community while strengthening the safety net in Koreatown.

The key challenge ahead is ensuring the program's sustainability. Above all, the LA Korean Association stresses the need to expand the volunteer pool. Anyone aged 18 or older who is bilingual in Korean and English can apply through the LA Korean Association (323-732-0700). International students are also eligible. As it involves working at the police station, applicants undergo background checks and fingerprinting.