This paper is concentrated on map generalization in digital environment for automated multi-scale map pro-duction using conventional hardcopy maps. Line generalization is urgently required process to prepare small scale digital map database when large scale map databases are available. This paper outlines a new approach to the line generalization when preparing small scale map on the basis of existing large scale distal map. Line generalizations are conducted based on zero-crossing algorithm using six sheets of 115,000 scale YEOSU area which produced by National Geographic Institute. The results are compared to Douglas-Peucker algorithm and manual method. The study gives full details of the data reduction rates and alternatives based on the proposed algorithm.