LA rioters seeking the ‘next George Floyd,’ according to 1992 ‘rooftop Korean’

Reflections from a Los Angeles Man on Recent Riots

A man from Los Angeles, who took to the streets in 1992 to protect local businesses during the riots following the Rodney King verdict, expresses concern over current unrest in the city. He believes that today’s rioters are orchestrated for political gain.

Tony Moon, now 53, is often referred to as “Korean.” Back when he was just 19, he, along with fellow Korean Americans, armed themselves to defend their neighborhoods from violence that erupted after the acquittal of officers involved in the Rodney King incident.

The sensational verdict led to a wave of riots that resulted in over 60 deaths and thousands of injuries in Los Angeles. Many Koreans, including Moon, took it upon themselves to safeguard their businesses, often finding vantage points from rooftops.

“While we didn’t foresee the extent of the riots, we knew the verdict would spark unrest,” Moon recalled. “My friend was particularly worried about his stereo shop in Koreatown.”

During those chaotic days, Radio Korea became a crucial source of information for the Korean-American community, alerting citizens to imminent dangers.

“I received a call after the radio announcement urging people to help protect our community,” he said. “There were concerns of fires and looting spreading into our area.”

Moon noted the prevailing tension between Black and Korean communities, which had intensified following a tragic incident the previous year. He described the atmosphere as one charged with uncertainty.

“The sentiments back then were quite organic, unlike now,” he said. “Today, everything feels manufactured. There’s a lack of genuine community support.” He drew comparisons to the protests in 2020, suggesting modern movements lack the grassroots backing seen in the past.

“It feels as if there’s a search for a martyr, almost like they’re waiting for the next George Floyd,” Moon remarked, reflecting on the motivations behind some of the current unrest.

While he firmly supports peaceful protests, Moon condemns acts of vandalism and property damage. He believes such actions cross a line.

To those who feel threatened by recent violence, he offers a piece of advice: “Invest in firearms if chaos arises in your neighborhood. I mean, I support the Second Amendment. Consider getting a shotgun; they’re easier to handle. Learn how to use it well.”

Recent riots have shaken Los Angeles, particularly as protests against Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations escalate. Clashes with law enforcement have seen rioters setting fires and damaging property while expressing anti-ICE sentiments.

In response to the chaos, city officials, including Mayor Karen Bass, have pointed fingers at the Trump administration, alleging that the deployment of National Guard troops has only heightened tensions.