South Korea Unlocks Google Maps Data After Security Review

South Korea announced on Friday its decision to permit Google to export detailed mapping data of the country, a move that resolves years of frustration for foreign visitors. The government has approved Google's request to export high-precision map data, with the crucial condition that stringent security safeguards are in place. These measures include limiting data transfers solely for navigation services and excluding sensitive information like contour lines.

Google must first process the map data on domestic servers and obtain government clearance before any export can occur. Additionally, the company is required to remove coordinates from South Korean territory and obscure satellite and aerial imagery of sensitive sites. A compliance officer will be stationed in South Korea to oversee map export matters, with potential suspension or revocation of approval for non-compliance. This decision lifts restrictions that had made Google Maps less functional in South Korea compared to other nations, where services from local companies like Naver and Kakao were predominantly used.