I would like to raise a serious issue regarding Google Maps’ POI (Point of Interest) display logic, using the case of Changdeokgung Palace.
The attached screenshots show the area around Aeryeonji Pond in Changdeokgung. One shows the status of ‘Nongsujeong’ before clicking, and the other shows the POI activated after clicking. As I have emphasized previously, Changdeokgung is a vast palace divided into 15 sectors, each with a clear hierarchy between main and annexed buildings. However, the current POI display logic on Google Maps falls far short of the standards expected from a world-leading technology company. (Note: I am a firm believer in Google as an admirable and pioneering enterprise.)
1. Logical Inconsistency: Case A (Nongsujeong) vs. Case B (Yeon-gyeongdang & Seonhyangjae)
Let’s look at the Yeon-gyeongdang sector. This area includes the main quarters (Yeon-gyeongdang and Seonhyangjae), servant quarters, and auxiliary buildings like Nongsujeong.
Logically, the main buildings—Yeon-gyeongdang and Seonhyangjae (Point B)—should be displayed first. It is only natural for Yeon-gyeongdang to appear as the top priority, followed by Seonhyangjae.
Now, look at Point A (Nongsujeong). Even at maximum zoom, only the text “Changdeokgung Nongsujeong” appears. The POI icon itself is hidden until the user specifically clicks on that spot. Because of this, average users (who are not high-level Local Guides) will likely assume no POI exists there. Consequently, they won’t be able to find the valuable reviews or photos attached to Nongsujeong and may end up posting their own photos under the wrong POI. How does this benefit Google Maps or its users in terms of data accuracy?
2. Cases C, D, E, and F: A Breakdown of Priorities
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Case C (Aeryeonjeong): This POI appears correctly at maximum zoom, following the proper hierarchy.
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Case D (Changdeokgung Uiduhap): Although this is a primary building in its sector, the POI does not appear even at the final zoom level. It is treated with lower priority than the smaller nearby building, Ungyeonggeo.
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Case E (Juhamnu) & F (Seohyanggak): Despite being core buildings of the 10th sector, they remain hidden at maximum zoom or appear inconsistently. Conversely, annexed pavilions like Huiujeong and Cheonseokjeong appear much earlier in the zoom levels. This is a complete reversal of the actual hierarchy.
3. A Call for Feedback: Systemic Flaw or Neglect?
Is this phenomenon unique to Changdeokgung in Korea, or is it a common structural flaw found globally?
I sincerely hope Google listens to user feedback and creates a virtuous cycle where its maps are truly respected. Please share your thoughts in the comments if you have observed similar cases where spatial hierarchy is ignored in your region or other historical sites.