I'm telling you about Korea
Why Korea Does Not Use Google Maps, Alternative App
The main reason for not using Google Maps in Korea is the superiority of localized map services, along with legal restrictions related to national security. I will explain in detail the background and map services that can be used as an alternative to this.
1. Restrictions on the use of Google Maps
legal restrictions
National Security Law: The Korean government restricts foreign companies from storing or using high-resolution map data on their overseas servers for national security reasons. This prevents Google from providing Korea's high-resolution map data. Because map data on Google Maps does not meet the security requirements of the Korean government, map services provided in Korea can only use low-resolution maps.
Limited features
Limitations of Directions and Navigation: Google Maps does not properly provide real-time traffic information and detailed navigation capabilities in Korea, as it lags behind local services in terms of data accuracy and update speed.
2. Alternable Map Services
In Korea, locally developed map services are widely used instead of Google Maps, which are optimized for the country's road system, public transportation, and tourism information. Key alternative services are as follows:
Naver Maps
Features: Naver Maps is one of the most widely used map services in Korea, which provides accurate directions and real-time traffic information. It has various functions such as public transportation information, walking route guidance, bicycle route, and indoor maps.
Advantages: It supports Korean and English, and works well with other services on Naver. For example, you can easily check restaurant reviews or information on nearby stores.
The downside: The interface can be a bit complicated for foreign users.
Kakao Map
Features: Kakao Maps is a map service that is widely used in Korea along with Naver Maps. Its strength is linking with KakaoTalk, and it has excellent real-time traffic information, public transportation information, and directions.
Advantages: It provides detailed information about the places users are looking for, and public transportation information is very accurate. It supports Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, and more.
Cons: Some user interfaces may be less intuitive compared to Naver Maps.
T Map (T Map)
Feature: T-map provided by SK Telecom is a popular navigation service among drivers mainly. It guides you through the fastest routes with real-time traffic information, and is widely used nationwide.
Advantages: Optimized for driving route guidance and excellent voice guidance. Telecom subscribers also receive data rate benefits.
The downside: Public transportation information and walking directions are relatively weak.
Mappers Atlas
Features: Atlan is a map service that provides precise navigation capabilities, primarily for drivers. It features up-to-date road information and route guidance that reflects traffic conditions.
Advantages: Provides high-definition 3D maps and accurate navigation.
Disadvantages: No public transportation information is provided and specialized in driving-oriented functions.
conclusion
The reason why Google Maps is not used in Korea is because of its legal restrictions and the superiority of its local map service. In Korea, Naver Maps, Kakao Maps, and T-map are great alternatives to Google Maps. Each service can be selected according to the needs of the user, and it is very convenient because it has functions that are tailored to the specific situation of the user, such as driving, public transportation, and walking.