Several of the business owners take on the role of mentor and trainer, helping newcomers to the area build connections in Koreatown. Through the circle, Kim is well acquainted with more than 12 coffee businesses, some outside Koreatown. Through Yon, Kim also met dozens of business owners and baristas. "It wasn't difficult finding this business circle," Jo, who's only been in the business for a few years, told Insider. "You would think business owners are competing more during these tough times," she said, "until I met these business owners."

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