The government on Tuesday banned adolescents from renting private rooms that can be rented by the hour to sing karaoke or play video games. The decision follows claims that teenagers increasingly use them to have sex.

The decision concerns so-called "multi-bang" businesses, from the Korean word for "room" (bang). They started emerging two or three years ago in Seoul’s Sinchon and Jongno areas, which are gathering places for young people.

Each room, measures about 15 sq.m and has a karaoke machine, DVD player, large screen, and a computer. Customers can sit comfortably on a long couch.

Most of these rooms are designed so it is difficult to see in from the outside, and some have a bed and bedding available, creating a perfect environment for young people to have sex.