Seoul Weighs Approval For Google, Apple High-Resolution Map Requests
South Korea is nearing a key decision that could shape the future of global mapping technology. Seoul weighs approval for Google, Apple high-resolution map requests, which, if approved, would allow both tech giants to export detailed geographic data to servers outside the country. These 1:5,000 scale maps would reveal streets, buildings, and alleyways in unprecedented detail—enhancing navigation apps but raising national security concerns.
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Lawmakers Raise National Security And Digital Sovereignty Concerns
Earlier this week, South Korea’s National Assembly Defense Committee held a parliamentary audit of Google Korea. Lawmakers scrutinized Google’s repeated requests for local high-resolution map data, expressing fears that such exports could compromise digital sovereignty. The review comes months after Seoul twice delayed its decision—first in May, then again in August.
Officials worry that combining detailed satellite maps with publicly available imagery could expose sensitive military sites. Given that South Korea remains technically at war with North Korea, the government’s cautious stance reflects a long-standing effort to balance technological progress with national defense.
Google’s Persistent Efforts To Secure High-Resolution Mapping Rights
Google has made multiple attempts to gain approval for exporting detailed map data from South Korea. In February, the company submitted its third official request to the Korean National Geographic Information Institute (NGII) to use a 1:5,000 scale map for its apps and to transfer the data abroad.
This scale would significantly improve features like real-time navigation, 3D building models, and location-based AR services. However, policymakers insist that any transfer of such detailed geographic information must include safeguards to protect national interests.
Apple Also In The Mix As Seoul Reviews Both Tech Giants
Apple has joined Google in requesting permission to export similar high-resolution map data. While Apple Maps currently relies on less detailed mapping in South Korea, access to 1:5,000 scale data could bring it closer to parity with Google Maps in accuracy and local coverage.
The joint interest from both tech companies has heightened the urgency of Seoul’s review. Regulators must decide whether improved global competitiveness and mapping accuracy outweigh potential risks to security and sovereignty.
Decision Expected By Mid-November
A government official told TechCrunch that the final decision on the high-resolution map requests is expected around November 11—or possibly sooner. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) recently extended the review period by 60 days to allow for further consultation among defense and data security agencies.
If approved, this move could mark a turning point for digital mapping in South Korea, potentially boosting the country’s presence in the global geospatial industry. However, if rejected, both Google and Apple may face continued limitations in delivering next-generation mapping experiences to Korean users.
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