US EditionSouth Korea set to finally get a fully functioning Google Maps
South Korea permits Google to export detailed 1:5,000 scale map data with strict security measures to enable full navigation services while protecting sensitive sites, officials said.
- The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport approved Google's request on Friday to export 1:5,000-scale map data with security safeguards.
- Seoul had repeatedly rejected Google’s bids in 2007 and 2016 after officials cited national-security risks exposing sensitive military sites due to the ongoing war with North Korea.
- Under the conditions, raw data must be processed on domestic servers operated by local partners, and authorities mandated masking sensitive sites, a designated in-country compliance officer, and a 'fired button' emergency mechanism.
- The ministry said the move aims to boost tourism and strengthen South Korea's geospatial industry, while analysts warn it may reshape the market dominated by Naver Corp. and Kakao Corp. and raise monopoly concerns.
- Amid trade pressure, the United States flagged map data restrictions as a barrier, while Google’s February 2025 filing awaits approval and has not confirmed plans for a local data center.
51 Articles
51 Articles
South Korea conditionally approves Google’s high-precision map data export
South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) announced Friday that the government has conditionally approved a request by Google to export 1:5,000 scale high-precision digital map data overseas, resolving a policy dispute that has persisted since 2007, according to local media sources. The decision was issued by an interagency review body including the Ministries of National Defense and Foreign Affairs, following a review…
The South Korean government allows Google to access its cartographic data to power Google Maps. So far, the application of the US giant could not offer precise positions, limiting its use for foreign tourists. This decision marks the end of a Korean monopoly on GPS applications in the country of 20 years.
Observador
Noticias ao MinutoAfter two decades of rejected attempts, claiming risks to North Korea, Seoul authorised the distribution of Cartographic data with the giant North American Google.
South Korea opens the door to let Google Maps operate fully
After years of appeals, Google has finally won approval to export high-precision geographic information out of South Korea and provide proper Google Maps services in the country, including walking and real-time driving directions.
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