Google, the global search portal service, is under fire for labeling the East Sea as the Sea of Japan in its local weather service in Korea.
Seo Kyung-duk, a professor at Sungshin Women's University, said on the 12th on social media (SNS), "So far, the Sea of Japan has appeared as the primary label in some East Coast areas, sparking controversy," and noted, "According to recent tips from netizens, the Sea of Japan is being prioritized even in South Gyeongsang areas such as Changwon and Changnyeong."
Seo particularly said it runs counter to Google's own convention that for names disputed by country, the service should follow the notation used in the country of access.
Accordingly, he explained that it is appropriate to display "East Sea" when using Google Maps in Korea and "Sea of Japan" when accessed in Japan.
He added, "If Google is a true global corporations, it needs to properly understand the basic sentiments of the country concerned, but this disregards them." He continued, "A strong response from our government is necessary," and urged, "Google must correct this weather labeling."