Pershing Square, located 10 minutes east of LA's Koreatown at LADT, feels a bit unfamiliar.

Although it's called a 'park', it doesn't resemble the green lawns or tree-shaded landscapes we usually envision.

Modern sculptures sit on concrete floors, and unusual structures with purple walls and orange columns catch the eye.

Pershing Square is said to be one of the oldest parks in LA. It has been around since the late 19th century, and its current appearance was created after renovations in the late 1990s.

Initially, it was highlighted as a symbol of urban renewal, but for a while, foot traffic decreased due to issues with homelessness and crime.

However, in recent years, as downtown has regained its vitality, this place is gradually changing as well.

New apartments, boutique hotels, cafes, and restaurants have sprung up around the park, and on weekends, street performers often entertain.

I visited on a Saturday, and already on one side of the square, a busker was playing guitar, while near the central fountain, people were sitting with coffee.

Teenagers riding shared scooters or skateboards passed by, and behind them, an elderly man was tossing food to the pigeons. The scene of various races and generations of LA gathered in one place was quite impressive.

While it may feel stark for a park, that urban texture seems to be the charm of this place. It's an ordinary square surrounded by concrete buildings, yet it is infused with the daily lives of people.

As you look around the square, the large 'PURPLE WALL' on the wall stands out. Next to it is a structure resembling a yellow bell tower, which actually serves as a clock tower. In the center, there is a shallow fountain, and in the summer, you can see children running through the water streams.

Sitting on the surrounding benches, the city noise passes right by, yet it feels strangely serene. The sounds of car horns, metro trains, and skateboards rolling feel like the background music of Pershing Square.

Being a park in the heart of downtown LA, the lunchtime scene is naturally vibrant. In warm weather, food trucks line up on the road next to the park, offering everything from tacos to hot dogs, salads, and coffee. I also bought two carnitas tacos from a nearby food truck and sat on a bench to eat.

Another charm of Pershing Square is the events held throughout the seasons. In winter, an ice rink appears in the middle of the park, brightly lit with Christmas decorations. Conversely, in summer, outdoor events like concerts, movie screenings, and food festivals are frequently held. Being in the city center, the lights shine brightly at night, and the presence of security patrols has significantly reduced the perception of danger that once existed.

Next to the park is the Metro Pershing Square station, making it easily accessible. Taking the purple or red line, you can reach Hollywood or Koreatown in just about 10 minutes. Some people get off at Union Station and walk through here to head to the Broad Museum or Walt Disney Concert Hall. Pershing Square serves as a hub for such movement while also being a 'pause in the city' where one can take a break.

At first, I thought it was just an ordinary park in the gray urban landscape, but when the wind flowed between the buildings and sunlight shone through the columns, I felt like I was seeing the true face of the city amidst its complexity.

Some call this place a 'colorless square', but in reality, the lives of people are richly intertwined within it. Music flows, the aroma of coffee wafts, conversations happen, and the day passes by.

Whenever you want to take a breather while walking through downtown LA, Pershing Square is always there.