Google has removed latitude and longitude coordinates for South Korean territory from Google Maps and Google Earth, meeting a key security requirement set by Seoul for exporting high-precision map data overseas.
South Korea's government confirmed the development on Friday, November 13, following a review of the security measures introduced by the US technology giant.
The approval, granted in February 2026, marked a major shift in the country's policy after it rejected Google's earlier requests in 2007 and 2016 over concerns that sensitive military and security locations could be exposed.
The government said Google must also delete Street View imagery covering military and security facilities across South Korea, including areas around these sites.
Authorities warned that the export permit could be suspended or revoked if Google seriously violates the conditions. The safeguards are intended to prevent sensitive geographical information from appearing on the company's global mapping platforms.
Google has also selected South Korean navigation company TMAP Mobility to process base map data for its local mapping service, according to Yonhap News Agency, citing industry sources.
Under the arrangement, Google must use imagery processed for security purposes by domestic partners and upload it without making modifications. The company is expected to begin using TMAP-processed data stored on domestic servers that meet government security standards as early as next year.
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The cooperation between Google and TMAP will cover static map information, including roads, buildings and addresses. It will not include TMAP users' personal data, real-time location information or driving routes.
The conditions allow Google to access high-precision map data while keeping sensitive information subject to South Korean security requirements. The government has made clear that the company's permission remains conditional and that compliance will continue to be monitored.
South Korea's decision reverses a policy it maintained for nearly two decades. The country had previously refused Google's requests to export detailed map data, citing national security concerns and the possibility that information about military facilities could be exposed.
The latest approval is expected to help Google improve its mapping services in South Korea, where access to detailed geographical data has long been restricted.
Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The company had previously said it was willing to meet Seoul's security requirements to secure approval for transferring high-precision map data overseas.