American soldiers are spread widely around the world and so have become fans of cheap international calls through VoIP.

But squaddies based in South Korea will now have to pay more for their VoIP calls as all new contracts now have to be made with local providers, according to US Department of Defence newspaper Stars & Stripes.

Previously, the military community in the country used US-based companies which charged as little as $15 (£7) a month to call back home.

But the switch to using a South Korean provider and a local phone number could see prices soar.

South Korean internet service providers were originally going to launch the clampdown on companies not registered under the Korean Telecommunications Business Act last year.

However, this was delayed until today after General Burwell Baxter Bell, commander of the US forces in the country, said it would impact the quality of life enjoyed by his soldiers.