Bum Su Kim, who also goes by Bruce, is the owner of One Stop Washeteria, a multifunctional business offering a laundromat with 80 washing machines and 80 dryers, Salon, Barbershop, money transfer services, cell phone repairs and even a car wash. His establishment is truly a one-stop shop for the community.
Originally, Bum Su Kim was a jeweler by trade, specializing in fine craftsmanship. It was through the encouragement of his friends that he ventured into the washateria business—an industry seen as more stable and sustainable in the long term.
When asked what drew him to Gulfton, Kim emphasized that he saw an opportunity to serve a hardworking and diverse community. He admired the strong sense of resilience and saw potential in providing a convenient, reliable service that catered to everyday needs. Despite early challenges, he embraced the area and committed himself to making it better, both as a business owner and a community advocate.
A Key Player in Public Safety and Community Cleanup
Most recently, Bum Su Kim played an active role in improving public safety in Gulfton. Behind his property, an abandoned telecom easement had become a hazardous alleyway. Once used for cable infrastructure, it had since been overtaken by homeless encampments, illegal dumping, drug activity, and violent crime, including gunfire. Local residents raised concerns about the deteriorating conditions, making it a pressing public health and safety issue.
In response, Council Member Edward Pollard’s office led an effort to provide resources for the homeless population, ensuring they had the support needed to relocate. Once the alleyway was cleared, a collaborative cleanup effort was launched, involving HPD, the Gulfton Management District, and Council Member Pollard’s Office.
Kim voluntarily granted access to his property, allowing the cleanup teams to reach the alleyway efficiently. Through this process, he worked closely with HPD Officer Mendoza, who informed him that his own property was being used by rival gangs to communicate through graffiti. The markings, which Kim had initially dismissed as casual street art, were actually gang-related symbols fueling territorial disputes and violence.
Taking Swift Action with Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
After learning that his property was contributing to safety concerns, Kim took immediate action. HPD recommended he implement Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies to deter criminal activity and improve security. Without hesitation, he made all the suggested changes within just a few weeks, including:
- Removing gang graffiti and repainting the walls.
- Cutting down overgrown trees that provided hiding spots for illegal activity.
- Installing brighter lighting to improve visibility and safety.
- Working with HPD to ensure the area remained secure.
These efforts not only enhanced safety for his customers and staff but also transformed the surrounding area into a cleaner, more welcoming space for the community.
A Business Leader Recognized for His Contributions
Kim’s unwavering dedication to public safety and community improvement has not gone unnoticed. At last month’s board meeting, he was honored with the Business Leader Recognition Award for his efforts in enhancing security, collaborating with law enforcement, and revitalizing his property for the benefit of Gulfton residents.
His story is a powerful example of responsible business ownership, demonstrating how businesses can play a vital role in shaping safer, stronger communities.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Continued Improvement
Kim remains committed to fostering a positive environment and is exploring ways to further beautify the neighborhood. One of his ideas includes commissioning a mural—a way to provide young artists with a positive outlet for creative expression, steering them away from vandalism.
As he continues to expand his business and support the community, Bum Su Kim stands as a role model for other business owners. His proactive approach to safety, cleanliness, and customer care proves that small businesses have the power to create real change—not just for their customers, but for the entire community.
