Pico-Union is located west of the Harbor Freeway and between Olympic Boulevard and the Santa Monica Freeway. It is one of the poorest neighborhoods in Los Angeles – generally considered worst than South Central LA.[1] The barrio is home to thousands of immigrants from Central America. The crime rate in this area is high, and there are many gangs that hang out in this neck of town.[2] In recent years, the east side of Pico-Union has seen its dilapidated buildings redeveloped. Also, more and more Korean businesses are moving into the district around Hoover Street, which has earned the section the nickname of “Greater Koreatown”. Still, the only attraction in Pico-Union is the Loyola Law School in the northern edge of the district. So, in general, Pico-Union should be avoided especially at night.[3]

References:
Dickey, Jeff. Los Angeles, 3rd Edition. Rough Guides, 2003. ISBN: 1843530589.

“Pico-Union.” < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pico-Union>

[1] Pico-Union
[2] Dickey, 69
[3] Pico-Union