| Document And entity Information | Nov. 29, 2019 |
| Cover page. | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 29, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | HOPE BANCORP INC |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-50245 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 95-4849715 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3200 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1400 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Los Angeles |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 90010 |
| City Area Code | 213 |
| Local Phone Number | 639-1700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | HOPE |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001128361 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
