South Korea’s Decision on Exporting High-Resolution Map Data
South Korea is on the verge of making a crucial decision regarding the export of high-resolution geographic map data by Google and Apple. This detailed map data, utilizing a 1:5,000 scale, promises to offer a level of detail not currently available on these platforms, showcasing streets, buildings, and alleyways in unprecedented clarity. However, several regulatory and security challenges still need to be addressed.
Recently, the National Assembly Defense Committee of South Korea conducted a parliamentary audit of Google Korea, raising concerns about the company’s requests for local map data. Lawmakers expressed worries about national security and digital sovereignty. This audit comes after Seoul postponed a decision on Google’s request to export high-resolution map data back in August, following an earlier delay in May.
A lawmaker has cautioned that Google’s satellite maps could compromise national security by revealing sensitive military sites when combined with commercial imagery and online data. The lawmaker is urging the government to acquire the authority to monitor and regulate the export of high-resolution geographic information, especially considering South Korea’s ongoing technical conflict with North Korea.
The final decision by the South Korean government regarding Google Maps is anticipated around November 11 or potentially sooner, according to a government official. Last month, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport announced an extension of the review period by an additional 60 days.
In a bid to enhance its mapping services, Google has requested permission from the Korean National Geographic Information Institute to utilize a 1:5,000 scale map in South Korea. This more detailed map would provide significantly more information and detail compared to the current 1:25,000 scale map used by Google. Local navigation apps such as Naver Map, T Map, and Kakao Map are popular among South Korean users for their detailed map data at a 1:5,000 scale.
South Korean authorities had previously rejected Google’s requests for map data access in 2011 and 2016, citing concerns about security and the company’s compliance with local regulations. After the latest rejection in August, Google reportedly agreed to obscure sensitive locations on its maps and explore obtaining satellite data from approved local providers.
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Google has yet to respond to queries from DailyTech regarding this matter. Under South Korea’s Geospatial Information Management Act, government survey data like maps and satellite images cannot be transferred abroad without Cabinet approval, reflecting the country’s stringent control over geospatial data.
The issue of map data has emerged as a critical national security concern in various conflict zones globally. In the past, Google Maps had to disable real-time traffic data in sensitive regions like Israel and Gaza, while European regulators had raised privacy concerns over Street View images.
Apple Joins Google in Seeking South Korea Map Data
Apple has also sought permission to export high-resolution map data from South Korea at a 1:5,000 scale, following an initial request in 2023 that was denied. Unlike Google, Apple operates local servers in Korea, enabling swift responses to security issues at critical sites.
South Korea has delayed its decision on Apple’s request to export high-precision map data, with reports suggesting that Apple may be more amenable to adhering to government restrictions compared to Google. Apple is reportedly considering the use of SK Telecom’s T Map as its primary map data source.
Apple has not provided comments in response to queries from DailyTech. Both Google and Apple are enhancing their mapping services to offer detailed information for navigation, potentially supporting technologies like autonomous vehicles and drone deliveries. Exporting high-resolution map data could benefit South Korea by boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and fostering smart city initiatives, although concerns have been raised about potential advantages for U.S. tech giants over domestic users.
Google Maps has a wider global coverage spanning 250 countries and territories, while Apple Maps is available in just over 200 regions, as per reports.
