South Korea on Brink of Decision to Export High-Resolution Maps to Google and Apple Servers

South Korea Weighs Approval for Google, Apple High-Resolution Map Requests SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - In a move that could significantly impact the country's digital landscape, South Korea is nearing a decision on whether to allow Google and Apple to export high-resolution geographic map data to servers outside the country. The detailed maps, which use a 1:5,000 scale, would show streets, buildings, and alleyways in far greater detail than currently available on these platforms. The National Assembly Defense Committee held a parliamentary audit of Google Korea earlier this week, with lawmakers questioning the company's requests for local map data. Rep. Kim Yong-ho, a member of the committee, expressed concerns over national security and digital sovereignty, warning that Google's satellite maps could endanger national security by exposing sensitive military sites when combined with commercial imagery and online data. "We cannot allow foreign companies to export our country's sensitive information without proper regulation," Rep. Kim said in a statement. "We need to gain authority to monitor and regulate the export of high-resolution geographic information." The decision has been delayed several times, with the government initially postponing its decision on Google's request in August following an earlier delay in May. The current impasse highlights the complex regulatory hurdles surrounding the use of high-resolution map data. South Korea remains technically at war with North Korea, and the government is cautious about exposing sensitive military sites to potential adversaries. The country's defense ministry has expressed concerns that the detailed maps could be used for military planning or espionage. The approval process also raises questions about digital sovereignty, as South Korea seeks to balance its economic interests with national security concerns. "We need to ensure that our data is not being exploited by foreign companies without proper oversight," said a government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. If approved, the high-resolution maps would be used for various applications, including navigation and mapping services, urban planning, and emergency response. The technology has significant implications for industries such as transportation, logistics, and real estate. The decision is expected to be made within the next few weeks, with the government likely to consider input from various stakeholders, including industry experts, lawmakers, and civil society groups. The outcome will have far-reaching consequences for South Korea's digital landscape and its relationships with foreign tech giants. In related news, Apple has also submitted a request to export high-resolution map data, although details of the proposal are not publicly available. A spokesperson for Apple declined to comment on the matter, citing confidentiality agreements. The approval process highlights the complex interplay between technology, regulation, and national security in South Korea. As the country navigates this delicate balance, it remains to be seen how the decision will impact its digital sovereignty and relationships with foreign tech companies. *Reporting by Techcrunch.*