"I checked Tmap to understand the National Assembly structure"... Top navigation app company caught in martial law controversy

707 Special Task Force Leader Unfamiliar with National Assembly Structure, "Using Tmap"
Map Service Platform Location Information Same as Other Companies
Industry: "Issue Likely Due to Being the No.1 Company"

Tmap, a navigation information provider, suddenly became embroiled in the aftermath of the martial law incident. Interest was sparked in online communities as it was revealed that Colonel Kim Hyuntae, commander of the 707 Special Mission Group, used 'Tmap' to understand the layout of the National Assembly during the martial law situation. Tmap is the largest company in the domestic navigation application (app) market, holding a high market share of 74%.

As a result of searching for the National Assembly Building using navigation applications. (From left) T map, Naver Map, Kakao Map app / Photo by each app capture

On the 9th, Kim Hyuntae, commander of the 707 Special Mission Group (colonel), held a press conference in front of the War Memorial in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, stating that he turned on Tmap to check the structure of the National Assembly after receiving orders to enter the National Assembly building during the martial law.

Using Tmap to understand the structure is generally seen as no different compared to other navigation apps like Naver or Kakao. An industry insider said, "Platforms providing map services receive digital topographic maps and aerial photos from the National Geographic Information Institute," adding, "The location information on the maps is all similar."

In fact, when running Tmap, Naver Map, and Kakao Map apps, there was no significant difference in the map information values. Rather, Naver provides a more detailed view with road view when looking at the map service alone, not the navigation. A representative from the National Geographic Information Institute said, "The National Assembly is a security matter, so map information is released with security processing," and "Map services provided by private companies are created separately by each company." Tmap and Kakao do not provide road view services inside the National Assembly building.

In the industry, it is evaluated as an inevitable aspect for the top domestic navigation app company. According to data released in March by the research specialist Consumer Insight, 74% of smartphone navigation users use Tmap, while Kakao Map and Naver Map account for 12% and 7%, respectively.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.