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South 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.
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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.
·Paris, France
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Noticias ao Minuto
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.
·Portugal
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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.
·United States
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Total News Sources51
Leaning Left12Leaning Right7Center12Last UpdatedBias Distribution39% Left, 39% Center
Bias Distribution
- 39% of the sources lean Left, 39% of the sources are Center
39% Center
L 39%
C 39%
R 22%
Factuality
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