The purposes of this study were to investigate characteristics of internet cafe and to determine compliance with smoke-free regulation of the National Health Promotion Act. Methods: Field survey was conducted in 202 randomly selected internet cafes in Seoul, Korea. A researcher visited internet cafes on peak time and recorded characteristics related to smoke-free regulation. Presence of smoker, ashtray or cigarette butts was recorded. Results: Non-smoking area sign and smoking room sign were

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... erved in 78% of the internet cafes. Smoking room was present in 191 internet cafes. However, 20% of the smoking rooms were not enclosed. Business related facilities were found in 86% of the smoking rooms. Bringing food or drink to smoking room was observed in 32%. Only 21 internet cafes complied with all smoke-free regulations of the National Health Promotion Act. During the observation period, smoker, ashtray and/or cigarette butt were observed in 58% of the internet cafes. Conclusion: Although signage was observed in the most internet cafes, about 90% of the smoking rooms did not comply with the regulation. In addition, smoking activities were observed in more than 58% of the internet cafes despite of smoke-free regulation. Stricter enforcement is needed to protect patron and workers in internet cafes.