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Korean and Mexican Angelenos become World Cup foes amid dynamic relationship
By Helen Jeong-Saldaña at NBC Los Angeles (KNBC)
· June 18, 2026
· 1 min read
Two of the most populous and culturally significant ethnic communities in Los Angeles found themselves on opposite sides during Thursday’s World Cup match: South Korea versus Mexico — or Mexico versus South Korea, depending on who you ask.
As Mexico and South Korea clashed on the field of Guad...
Key takeaway As Mexico and South Korea clashed on the field of Guad...
Why this matters in The Los Angeles
The World Cup match between South Korea and Mexico has brought attention to the unique relationship between the two communities in Los Angeles, particularly in Koreatown. This multiethnic neighborhood has been a hub for cultural exchange and cooperation, with Mexican and Korean residents learning from each other and building a strong bond. The city's food scene has been a significant factor in strengthening this relationship, with the fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine, such as Kogi BBQ, becoming a staple in the community. The fact that fans from both sides can come together at a restaurant like Guelaguetza, a critically acclaimed Oaxacan restaurant in Koreatown, and root for each other, regardless of the outcome, speaks to the city's ability to bring people together. This dynamic relationship is a testament to Los Angeles' diverse and inclusive environment, and it will be interesting to see how this camaraderie continues to grow and evolve in the future.
About this story
Original reporting by NBC Los Angeles (KNBC) . The Los Angeles surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit NBC Los Angeles (KNBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 18, 2026 ·
Source: NBC Los Angeles (KNBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Two of the most populous and culturally significant ethnic communities in Los Angeles found themselves on opposite sides during Thursday’s World Cup match: South Korea versus Mexico — or Mexico versus South Korea, depending on who you ask.
As Mexico and South Korea clashed on the field of Guad...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 18, 2026 by NBC Los Angeles (KNBC) and curated for The Los Angeles readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Helen Jeong-Saldaña at NBC Los Angeles (KNBC). To learn more about how The Los Angeles selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Los Angeles, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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