[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] South Korean academic and industry experts have voiced strong opposition to Google’s request to export high-resolution map data outside the country, citing serious national security concerns and threats to information sovereignty.



On July 13, Professor An Jung-sang of Chung-Ang University released a report titled “Google’s Unilateral Demand for High-Precision Map Data Export: Refusal Is the Right Answer.” The report criticizes Google’s attempt to take 1:5,000 scale map data—capable of detailing alleyways with 1 cm representing 50 meters—to its overseas data centers.



Google first made the request to the South Korean government in February 2025, seeking to transfer this sensitive geospatial data for use in services such as location-based advertising and autonomous driving technologies. Professor An argued that this move is not for consumer convenience but part of Google’s broader commercial strategy, and urged the government to decisively reject the proposal.



“South Korea’s security context as a divided nation requires special caution. Public geospatial data, developed with taxpayer funds, is a national asset and must remain under government control to protect our information sovereignty,” said Professor An.



He further noted that foreign tech firms such as Apple and Baidu could follow suit if Google’s request is granted, potentially undermining the domestic spatial data industry—98% of which consists of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), supporting a market valued over 11 trillion KRW annually.



Google has refused to build local data centers in Korea and insists on transferring the map data abroad without subjecting it to Korean security oversight. Professor An criticized this position as an attempt to bypass domestic regulations and avoid tax obligations. “Unless Google commits to storing data on domestic servers, the export of high-resolution maps should not even be considered,” he added.



Professor Lee Jung-hyun of Seoul Women’s University echoed these concerns, writing in a May opinion piece for the Korea Internet Self-Governance Organization (KISO) that Korea’s security situation is unique and requires a firm rejection of Google’s request. She warned that foreign companies controlling sensitive geographic data could make it difficult to respond to potential national security breaches, such as exposure of military facilities.



The Ministry of National Defense had previously asked Google to lower the resolution of sensitive sites on Google Earth—but reportedly received no response for more than three years.



Professor Yoo Ki-yoon of Seoul National University also warned against allowing the data export. “The government’s policy of freely providing digital maps aims to boost domestic industry and return the benefits to the people. Allowing foreign companies to profit from these maps while enjoying tax advantages contradicts that mission,” he said.



The South Korean government is expected to deliver its decision on Google’s request by August 11.

 

 

 

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