South African music star Mampintsha has been charged with assault after a video showed him hitting his girlfriend, who is also a popular musician.

Mampintsha, whose real name is Mandla Maphumulo, apologised but said he had acted in self defence.

Bongekile Simelane, known by her stage name Babes Wodumo, was talking to fans on Instagram Live in a bedroom when she was slapped repeatedly.

Violence against women is seen as a major problem in South Africa.

The video, which was broadcast live on Sunday evening, was widely shared on social media sparking outrage and calls for Mampintsha's arrest.

Babes Wodumo featured on the Black Panther soundtrack and has often collaborated with Mampintsha , including onone of her most popular songs, Wololo.

Mampintsha appeared in a Pinetown Magistrate's Court in the coastal city of Durban, where he was charged with assault under South Africa's domestic violence laws.

He told reporters outside the court that he had been asleep when Babes Wodumo arrived at their hotel room after a party.

"Babes arrived and she assaulted me. In my defence I hit her back," he said after being freed on bail set at 2,000 rand ($140; £110).

"I made a mistake but no-one can accept to be attacked while asleep in bed. I'm sorry for my actions. I ask for forgiveness for raising my hand against her," he added.

National police spokesman Brig Vish Naidoo told the BBC all cases of domestic abuse were taken seriously.

"We are treating this case just as would any other similar case. The question is whether you the media treat this case like any other. We are consistent," he said.

Mampintsha, who is a member of Kwaito music group Big Nuz, has also filed a counter-assault charge. (BBC)