The quality of life in Elmhurst and Flushing--areas with a high population density of Koreans--is declining.

Recent statistics show a marked increase in robberies and violent crime as well as an alarming increase of prostitution. Women of many races and ethnic minorities ply their trade throughout the night.

From the beginning of May until June 8, 36 robberies were reported in the Flushing area--an increase of almost 80% over the same period last year, when only 20 robberies were committed. In the same period violent crime increased by almost 70% (a total of 26 incidents reported).

Elmhurst, Jackson Heights and Corona also report a similar pattern, the 110th Precinct registered 59 robberies in the same period, and 49 break-ins. This is an increase of 20.4%, and 10.8% respectively, over last year’s figures. The 108th and the 115th Precincts also report an increase in serious criminal activity.

Korean restaurants, bookstores and other shops that are open late or are 24 hours, in high population density areas such as 74th Street in Elmhurst, report a marked increase in open prostitution. Minority race prostitutes solicit clients entering these establishments along 74th to 76th Streets, as well as on Broadway.

At 2 a.m. on June 11th, police apprehended a number of prostitutes and Hispanic men on 75th Street.

Mr. Kim, 33, a four-year resident of this area said, “There were not many prostitutes in this area at night last year. Recently, the economy has been so bad that perhaps that is why so many prostitutes are now in the area. This activity, so close to where we live, is terrible.”

Mr. Oh, who was dining at a Korean restaurant on 74th Street after midnight one night, said, “Whenever I go to nearby Korean restaurants, it’s not unusual to see groups of prostitutes approaching customers. When I park near the restaurant, they are suddenly in front of my car, trying to get business. It’s a completely embarrassing and difficult moment. I worry about this neighborhood.”