A nationwide ban on smoking in restaurants and other public establishments with floor space of more than 150 square metres took effect 8 Dec, Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) reported.

Smokers can continue to light up in establishments with separate smoking areas, KBS reported. The ban will be extended to establishments larger than 100 sqare metres beginning in 2014 and all establishments from 2015. The ban also covers public facilities frequented by children or minors, according to KBS.
Several large cities, including the capital Seoul, have instituted smoking bans. (pi)