Filled with noise, bright lights and cigarette smoke, the attraction of the pachinko parlor is hard for many to fathom.

Seemingly oblivious to their surroundings, the players — mostly males — sit transfixed as the metal balls cascade down the front of the machines, hoping to hit the "jackpot.''

Yet this national pastime is rife with reports of shady dealings, links to North Korea, gambling addiction and crime.