Google Appeals to South Korea for Overseas Transfer of High-Precision Map Data

Synopsis

Google has formally requested the South Korean government to permit the transfer of high-precision map data abroad. This follows two previous unsuccessful attempts due to national security concerns. The company is now willing to comply with conditions to protect sensitive sites.

Key Takeaways

Google seeks permission for high-precision map data transfer.
Previous requests in 2007 and 2016 were denied due to security issues.
Current proposal suggests compliance with data protection measures.
Concerns arise over coordinate data requests.
Government review process is set to begin.

Seoul, Feb 28 (NationPress) Google has made a formal request to the South Korean authorities to permit the US tech giant to export the nation's high-precision map data abroad, following two unsuccessful attempts previously, officials reported on Friday.

As per the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Google submitted a proposal to the state-operated National Geographic Information Institute on Feb. 18, seeking authorization to transfer 1:5,000 scale high-precision map data to its overseas data centers, according to Yonhap news agency.

At present, Google utilizes publicly accessible, lower-resolution 1:25,000 scale map data blended with aerial and satellite images to provide maps for South Korea. This method results in inferior mapping services compared to local map service providers.

Google had made similar requests in 2007 and 2016, but these were denied by the South Korean government due to national security apprehensions, citing the risk of exposing military facilities and other sensitive locations.

In 2016, the government suggested conditions that would require Google to obscure sensitive areas or maintain the data on domestic servers, which Google rejected.

This time, Google has shown readiness to comply with the blurring requirements and has also asked for coordinate data pertaining to security sites. This additional request for coordinate data has sparked concerns among the government’s security sector.

The government will conduct an internal assessment and initiate discussions. According to regulations, a decision must be communicated to Google within 60 days, with a potential extension of another 60 days if necessary.

“In light of security concerns, the perspectives of the defense ministry and the National Intelligence Service will play a pivotal role in the discussions,” a government representative stated.

Last December, South Korean automotive giant Hyundai Motor Group announced its collaboration with Google to enhance its automotive software systems and provide next-gen navigation and infotainment experiences for drivers, as reported.