The sign replaces a nearly century-old red icon -- a circle with rising wisps of steam that have been appropriated by "love motels," which offer prostitution or short stays for couples having extramarital relations.
Public baths and many lodging facilities also use the old logo, which was introduced when South Korea was colonized by Japan from 1910-45, Lim said.
The new logo depicts waves of water with two circles symbolizing the heads of a father and son amid rising steam. Those using the sign at non-spa facilities can be punished by up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,030, Lim said.
