South Korea Approves Google’s Request to Export High-Precision Map Data
South Korea has conditionally approved Google’s long-standing request to export high-precision map data, a move expected to significantly improve the functionality of Google Maps within the country. The decision, announced on Friday, February 27, 2026, marks the first such approval since Google initially sought permission in 2007.
Security Concerns and Conditions for Approval
For years, South Korean authorities have been hesitant to allow the transfer of detailed mapping data to overseas servers, citing national security concerns. These concerns stemmed from the potential risk that sensitive geographic information could be exploited by North Korea. However, after a thorough review by government officials and private experts, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) approved the export of 1:5,000-scale maps, subject to strict security requirements. Yahoo News
A 1:5,000-scale map represents 50 meters of actual distance as 1 centimeter on the map, allowing for highly detailed geographic representation. The government stipulated that only data essential for navigation and route guidance services will be transferred. All data must undergo security processing on domestic servers in South Korea before being exported. The Chosun Ilbo
Safeguards for Sensitive Information
To address security concerns, the South Korean government has mandated several safeguards. If satellite or aerial imagery of South Korean territory is made available through Google Maps or Google Earth, military installations and other sensitive facilities must be blurred. Coordinate information must also be removed from these services. Yahoo News
Google is required to employ a compliance officer in South Korea to oversee map export issues. The government retains the right to suspend or revoke the approval if Google fails to comply with the established conditions. Yahoo News
Google’s Response and Future Implications
Google has welcomed the South Korean government’s decision. Chris Turner, vice president for government affairs and public policy at Google, expressed the company’s gratitude for the approval, stating that transferring high-precision map data to overseas data centers is crucial for enabling core functions such as driving and walking directions.
This approval is expected to enhance the user experience for both locals and tourists using Google Maps in South Korea, providing more accurate and detailed navigation assistance. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is a cabinet-level division of the South Korean government responsible for national territory policy and infrastructure development. Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Wikipedia