South Korea is close to making a decision about whether Google and Apple will be permitted to transfer high-resolution geographic map data to servers outside its borders. These detailed maps, using a 1:5,000 scale, would provide much more precise depictions of streets, buildings, and alleyways than what is currently available on these services. Nonetheless, there are still unresolved regulatory and security issues.
Earlier this week, the National Assembly Defense Committee in South Korea conducted a parliamentary review of Google Korea. Lawmakers questioned the company’s intentions for local mapping data, voicing worries about national security and control over digital information. This hearing took place two months after Seoul delayed its decision on Google’s request to export high-resolution map data in August, following a previous postponement in May.
One policymaker cautioned that Google’s satellite mapping could threaten national security by revealing sensitive military locations when combined with commercial imagery and online data. The lawmaker called on the government to secure the power to oversee and control the export of high-resolution geographic data. Since South Korea is still technically at war with North Korea, authorities remain wary of disclosing such sites.
A South Korean government official told TechCrunch that a final decision regarding Google Maps is anticipated by around November 11, or possibly sooner. Last month, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport stated it would extend the review process by another 60 days.
In February, Google made its third request to the Korean National Geographic Information Institute for permission to use a 1:5,000 scale map in its app and to transfer this data to servers outside South Korea. At present, Google relies on a 1:25,000 scale map that features points of interest and satellite images. Local navigation apps like Naver Map, T Map, and Kakao Map are the top choices among South Korean users. These apps provide map data at a 1:5,000 scale, offering much more detail and giving them a notable edge over competitors.
South Korean authorities previously denied Google’s requests for access to the country’s map data in both 2011 and 2016. Officials made it clear that approval would only be granted if Google established a local data center and obscured sensitive areas, including sites critical to national security, due to security concerns. Google refused to comply with these requirements.
After South Korea’s rejection in August, reports indicate that Google agreed to blur the locations of security sites on Google Maps and Google Earth. The company is taking steps to obscure sensitive facilities to address government worries about satellite imagery, and is also considering purchasing government-approved satellite data from local sources such as T Map.
Google did not provide an immediate response to TechCrunch’s request for comment.
According to Article 16 of South Korea’s Geospatial Information Management Act, government survey data—including maps and satellite images—cannot be sent overseas without full Cabinet approval. Enacted in the 1970s, this law continues to form the basis for the country’s strict regulation of geospatial information.
Map data has become a sensitive security matter in conflict regions around the world. For example, in 2023, the Israeli military asked Google Maps to disable real-time traffic data in Israel and Gaza, similar to what was done in Ukraine after Russia’s 2022 invasion. In 2009, European regulators also pressed Google to erase original Street View images due to privacy issues.
Apple joins Google in seeking access to South Korea’s map data
Google is not alone in its efforts. In June, Apple also applied to export high-resolution map data from South Korea at a 1:5,000 scale, following a previous rejection of its request in 2023.
Unlike Google, which stores its map data on servers outside Korea, Apple maintains local servers—a difference that the government considers when evaluating requests. Having servers within the country enables authorities to respond quickly to security issues at sensitive locations.
Last month, South Korea delayed its decision on whether to let Apple export high-precision digital map data, moving the review to December.
Reports indicate that Apple may be more willing than Google to comply with government restrictions, such as blurring, masking, or reducing the resolution of sensitive areas. The company is also reportedly planning to use SK Telecom’s T Map as its main source for base map data.
Apple did not reply to TechCrunch’s requests for comment.
Both Google and Apple are enhancing their maps with detailed building outlines, alleyways, and accurate street-level data to improve navigation, which could also support technologies like autonomous vehicles and drone deliveries. For South Korea, allowing the export of high-resolution map data could help boost tourism, support local businesses, and advance smart city initiatives, while also giving the government tools to enforce security measures. However, critics argue that these changes may primarily benefit American tech companies rather than local users.
According to a report, Google Maps covers 250 countries and territories globally, while Apple Maps is available in just over 200 regions.
