The Associated Press reported today (20th) that the number of hate crimes against Asians in the U.S. surged and Korean elderly Koreans living in Los Angeles, California, also spend each day in fear.
Kim Yong-shin (85), who lives in Silvertown in downtown Los Angeles, said that he should always bring a whistle for self-defense when going out without going outside the house.
Mr. Kim said, "I can't even think about walking," he said, even though he was tested positive for Corona 19 and had to stay at home.
Kim Hyang-ran, 74, who lives in the same apartment, moved to his daughter's house for a while.
Chae Seong-hee (74), who lives in Koreatown, said that these days, she does not go alone to a Korean grocery store, which is a six-minute walk away, but with her son.
Danny Kim, who served in the US Air Force, was convicted of hate in February.
They were assaulted by two men, who said they shouted at Kim with the word "Chinese virus" and "Ching Chong," a derogatory word for Asians.
Concerns over Asian hate crimes have increased since last month's shooting of a white man in Atlanta killed eight people, including six Asian Americans, including four Koreans.
On the other hand, some elderly Koreans participate in protests against hate crimes.
Lee Jeon-ho (76) is uncomfortable enough to use a walker, but even while changing buses, he participated in a hate crime condemnation protest held in Koreatown.
Mr. Lee said, "It is not because we have a lot of time or are healthy to participate in the protests," he said. "Being Asian, we cannot be silent, and we have to unite."