South Korea Unlocks Google Maps After Years of Restrictions
South Korea reverses longstanding policy, finally letting Google export detailed map data overseas.
Google Maps in South Korea is about to actually work. The country has approved Google's request to export detailed geographic data beyond its borders, ending a policy that kept the mapping service essentially crippled for years.
South Korea had long blocked the export of granular map data, citing national security concerns. The restriction meant Google Maps couldn't offer the same level of detail and functionality that users in virtually every other major market take for granted.
The reversal is a big deal. South Korean users and visitors have relied on local alternatives like Naver Maps and KakaoMap, which worked far better within the country. Google now gets a real shot at competing in one of the world's most digitally connected nations.
No word yet on exactly when the improved maps will roll out to users.