Will South Korea Approve Google's Transfer of High-Precision Map Data by August?
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Synopsis
As Google seeks to transfer South Korea's high-precision map data overseas, the nation faces a significant decision that intertwines national security and digital sovereignty. This article explores the complexities surrounding the approval process and potential implications for the tech giant and the country.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea's decision on Google's data transfer is crucial for national security.
- Google has a history of request rejections due to security concerns.
- The review panel includes key government ministries.
- Current mapping services by Google are of lower quality compared to local providers.
- Google is willing to comply with blurring sensitive sites this time.
Seoul, May 11 (NationPress) The South Korean government is set to make a crucial decision by August regarding Google's request to transfer the nation's high-precision map data overseas. This decision comes amidst intense discussions surrounding national security, digital sovereignty, and various trade implications, officials revealed on Sunday.
Back in February, the U.S. tech giant submitted an application to the state-operated National Geographic Information Institute, seeking authorization to move 1:5,000-scale high-precision map data to its international data centers.
The review committee is required to inform Google of its decision within 60 days from the application submission, with a potential extension of another 60 days. Notably, holidays are not included in the review timeframe, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
The original deadline was mid-May; however, the government has opted to extend the review period and aims to reach a conclusion before the subsequent deadline of August 11, following the designation of the June 3 presidential election as a temporary holiday.
The determination will be made by the map data export review panel, which comprises officials from several key ministries, including defense, foreign affairs, industry, and science, in addition to the National Intelligence Service, according to the officials.
Currently, Google utilizes publicly accessible lower-resolution 1:25,000-scale map data, supplemented by aerial and satellite imagery, to offer mapping services in South Korea. This leads to inferior mapping quality in comparison to local map service providers.
Google previously submitted similar requests in 2007 and 2016, both of which were declined by Seoul due to concerns regarding national security, particularly the risk of revealing military bases and other sensitive areas.
In 2016, the government suggested conditions that required Google to obscure sensitive locations or store data on domestic servers, which Google declined.
This time around, Google has shown a willingness to comply with the blurring requirements and has requested coordinate data for security facilities. This additional request for coordinate data has sparked apprehension within the security community of the government.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize that the decision regarding Google's request is not merely a business transaction but a reflection of South Korea's commitment to safeguarding its national interests and security. Balancing innovation with security concerns is essential for the country's future.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeline for South Korea's decision on Google's map data transfer?
The South Korean government will make a decision by August concerning Google's request to transfer high-precision map data overseas, following a review period that could extend up to 120 days.
Why did South Korea previously reject Google's requests?
Past requests by Google in 2007 and 2016 were denied due to national security concerns, particularly regarding the potential exposure of military bases and sensitive facilities.
What type of map data is Google currently using in South Korea?
Google is currently providing mapping services in South Korea using publicly available lower-resolution 1:25,000-scale map data, along with aerial and satellite imagery.
What changes has Google proposed this time?
Google has expressed a willingness to comply with the requirement to blur sensitive sites and has requested coordinate data for security facilities, which has raised concerns within the government's security community.
Who is involved in the review of Google's application?
The review panel consists of officials from various ministries, including defense, foreign affairs, industry, science, as well as representatives from the National Intelligence Service.
