Google Assembles Team for Expanded Maps Service in South Korea

Google is expanding its Maps service in South Korea by assembling a team to develop strategic partnerships. The company has posted an advertisement for a Strategic Partnerships Development Manager position in Seoul, which will join Google's Global Product Partnerships team.

The new manager will work with private companies, government agencies, and technology partners to conclude new partnership agreements, identify product go-to-market opportunities, and build connections with Korean organizations. The role is part of an 'important historic moment for Korea,' according to Google.

Google's current Maps service in South Korea offers a large list of places, reviews, and public transport routes but lacks turn-by-turn navigation for driving or walking routes. The company has been approved to export high-precision base map data at a 1:5000 scale, which will be necessary for the expanded service.

Choi Bo-kyung, founder of A Piece of Map, stated that Google would need higher-quality base maps and data on addresses, points of interest, traffic, parking, and public transport to operate fully. The company will also need to reach agreements with local data providers and ensure their data is updated according to Korean legislation.