How East Asia’s internet cafes became a cheap urban refuge

Asia - South China Morning Post · Aug 4, 2026

The internet cafe was supposed to become obsolete. Instead, it has become indispensable. Across East Asia, these businesses are quietly evolving into temporary homes, budget hotels, co-working spaces and, for some, an unofficial social safety net. The debate in Hong Kong over overnight internet cafes is simply the newest chapter in a much bigger regional story. Hong Kong authorities have stepped up inspections after some internet cafes began offering overnight packages, private booths, showers...