Google has announced its decision to comply with the South Korean government’s request to blur sensitive satellite images on its mapping services. This move is expected to enhance the company’s competitiveness with local navigation platforms in the country. South Korea is one of the few places where Google Maps does not fully function due to local laws requiring companies to store core geospatial data locally, a requirement Google had previously refused to meet.

As a result, domestic technology firms such as Naver and Kakao have dominated the market for mapping services, making navigation challenging for foreign visitors who are unfamiliar with these platforms. Google’s decision to abide by Seoul’s demand marks a significant development in the nearly two-decade dispute over access to detailed South Korean maps. The company has argued for access to offer full walking and driving directions, but Seoul has refused to export the data, citing national security reasons.

Google Vice President Cris Turner confirmed that the company would blur satellite images as required and explore acquiring imagery from approved Korean third parties where appropriate. Additionally, Turner stated that Google would invest significant time and resources to remove the coordinates of security facilities from its maps. This announcement suggests that Google is committed to finding a solution that balances its business needs with the national security concerns of the South Korean government.

The issue of Google Maps access has been raised in recent trade talks between South Korea and the United States. According to the South Korean presidential office, high-precision map data was one of the topics discussed extensively with the US trade minister. However, the office noted that there had been no additional concessions on the matter. Industry sources indicate that South Korean officials are still in talks with Washington, with the possible export of high-precision maps remaining on the agenda.

Google’s decision to comply with the South Korean government’s request is a significant step towards resolving the long-standing dispute. The company’s ability to offer more comprehensive mapping services in the country is expected to improve navigation for both locals and foreign visitors. As the discussions between South Korea and the US continue, it remains to be seen whether a mutually beneficial agreement can be reached regarding the export of high-precision map data.