A BODY has been found behind a row of shops near busy King St in Sydney’s inner west.

Emergency services were called to Soudan Lane just off King St, Newtown after reports a body had been found.

Distraught family members were seen talking to police.

Police have cordoned off the area as forensics investigate the circumstances around the death.

A Japanese restaurant just 20 meters away from the crime scene, remains open as diners continue eating lunch.

It is unclear for how long the body has been there.