korean americans not only faced physical damage to their stores and community surroundings, but they also suffered emotional, psychological, and economic despair. about 2,300 korean-owned stores in southern california were looted or burned, making up 45 percent of all damages caused by the riot. according to the asian and pacific american counseling and prevention center, 730 koreans were treated for post-traumatic stress disorder, which included symptoms such as insomnia, sense of helplessness, and muscle pain. in reaction, many korean americans worked to create political and social empowerment.