On December 19, an expert panel of the National Police Agency compiled a report on measures against malicious male-host clubs, which states that false explanations of fees and high charges that take advantage of romantic feelings should be regulated. Female customers with debts are being forced into prostitution and the Agency intends to amend the Entertainment Business Law to tighten regulations.
The report stated that high charges that cause debt should be regulated, such as lying about the ‘Free charges for first timers’, taking advantage of romantic feelings by saying that our relationship will end, and opening an expensive champagne bottle without permission.
In terms of measures to deal with debt collection, the report also stated the need for restrictions on intimidating customers by telling them that they will go to their parents’ house if they don’t pay, or asking them for prostitution by confusing them with ‘I cannot marry you unless you work for me in the sex industry.’
It was also noted that the male hosts make their money through ‘scout back’, in which they receive referral fees from the sales of female customers they mediate to brothels. It also indicated to prohibit shops from paying for referrals.
It also called for stricter penalties for male-host clubs. The study group said that the current penalties were insufficient to deter and recommended an increase in the amount of fines. It also said that it’s necessary to take measures such as making it more difficult to open a new shop if shops in the same group have their licenses revoked.
The Agency will study the matter of compliance with the Entertainment Business Law and adding it to the list of prohibited acts, and compile a draft amendment for submission to next year’s ordinary session of the Diet.
Last year, 2,675 reports on male-host clubs were received by police nationwide. In July this year, the National Police Agency set up a study group made up of university professors and people involved in the industry.
