SEOUL, February 27 (AJP) - Global tech giant Google is now allowed to use official South Korean map data for its app services, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said on Friday.
According to the ministry, it decided to approve Google's long-awaited request to use precision map data for its services like Google Maps and Google Earth, following a meeting with officials from other relevant ministries, provided that Google "strictly comply with security guidelines."
Under the conditional approval, Google will still face some restrictions including blurring classified sites such as military facilities and security-related installations and limiting the exposure of precise coordinates. It will also need to assign domestic companies to handle map data processing.
Any satellite or aerial imagery of South Korean territory used in Google's services must also undergo security screening to restrict exposure and have precise coordinates removed.
The ministry said it will monitor Google's compliance with the conditions, and warned that serious violations could result in the suspension or revocation of the approval.
Google, along with other major foreign tech companies, has repeatedly sought permission since 2007 to use such data to offer services similar to those it provides in other countries.
Friday's decision was likely influenced by the growing number of foreign tourists visiting South Korea and the economic benefits that improved map services could bring.
According to the ministry, it decided to approve Google's long-awaited request to use precision map data for its services like Google Maps and Google Earth, following a meeting with officials from other relevant ministries, provided that Google "strictly comply with security guidelines."
Under the conditional approval, Google will still face some restrictions including blurring classified sites such as military facilities and security-related installations and limiting the exposure of precise coordinates. It will also need to assign domestic companies to handle map data processing.
Any satellite or aerial imagery of South Korean territory used in Google's services must also undergo security screening to restrict exposure and have precise coordinates removed.
The ministry said it will monitor Google's compliance with the conditions, and warned that serious violations could result in the suspension or revocation of the approval.
Google, along with other major foreign tech companies, has repeatedly sought permission since 2007 to use such data to offer services similar to those it provides in other countries.
Friday's decision was likely influenced by the growing number of foreign tourists visiting South Korea and the economic benefits that improved map services could bring.
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