The Korean Friendship Bell stands in Angel’s Gate Park in San Pedro, overlooking the Pacific and Los Angeles Harbor. South Korea gave the bronze bell to Los Angeles in 1976 to mark the US bicentennial and honor Korean War veterans. Its carved, painted pavilion draws the eye, while the hilltop setting gives you room for a walk, a picnic or sunset photos. Look west for Catalina Island, and watch ships move through the harbor. The park also has open grassy areas and a basketball court.
A gift for friendship and remembrance
The Republic of Korea presented the bell to the people of Los Angeles in 1976, the year of the United States bicentennial. The gift also honors veterans of the Korean War and symbolizes friendship between the two countries.
The bell is made of bronze and stands beneath a pavilion in Angel’s Gate Park. Its design draws on Korean bell-making traditions. The structure and its setting make the history visible without needing a long visit: take time to look at the bell’s surface and the painted details of the pavilion.
The bell and its pavilion
The bell is a substantial landmark, about seven feet tall and weighing 17 tons. The pavilion has a pagoda-like form and an ornate roof. Together, the bell and shelter create a striking contrast with the open hillside and ocean beyond.
The bell is not rung during an ordinary visit. Its sound is reserved for selected ceremonies and special dates. Independence Day and Korean events are occasions to look out for if hearing it matters to your visit.
Views across San Pedro and the Pacific
The park occupies a hilltop in San Pedro, with views across the Pacific and Los Angeles Harbor. On a clear day, Catalina Island is visible to the west. From the park, you can also watch ships moving through the port.
Open grass around the bell gives you space to sit or picnic, and paths connect to lower areas of the park. There is also a full-size basketball court. The setting suits a quiet pause as well as a walk, and sunset brings the ocean and harbor into view for photographs.
Planning a visit
Find the bell at 3601 S Gaffey St in San Pedro. The park is free to enter, and parking is available in a main lot and a smaller lot at the back. The main lot can become busy around 2pm, so allow time to find a space if arriving then.
A picnic is an easy way to spend longer in the park; bring what you need with you. If you want to hear the bell, check whether your dates coincide with a ceremony or Korean event. Otherwise, the pavilion, bell and views are the main focus of a short stop.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the Korean Friendship Bell free to visit?
Yes. Admission to the park and bell is free.
Where is the Korean Friendship Bell?
It is in Angel’s Gate Park at 3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, Los Angeles.
When can you hear the bell ring?
The bell rings on selected ceremonial occasions, including Independence Day and Korean events. It does not ring during a typical visit.
Can you see Catalina Island from the park?
Yes. Catalina Island is visible to the west from the hilltop park.
