South Korea approves Google bid to export high-precision map data

Core Viewpoint - South Korea has approved Google's request to export high-precision map data to overseas servers, marking a significant policy shift after two decades of rejections due to national security concerns [1]. Group 1: Regulatory Changes - The approval allows Google to enter a market where it has faced challenges, as South Korea is one of the few countries where Google Maps does not function properly [1]. - Previous requests by Google in 2007 and 2016 were denied on the grounds of national security, citing risks of exposing sensitive military and security facilities [1]. Group 2: Geopolitical Context - The decision comes amid pressure from the United States for South Korea to address perceived discrimination against U.S. tech companies [1].