"Kuma" (bear) selected as Kanji of the Year reflecting wildlife issues

The kanji “Kuma,” meaning bear, has been selected as the Kanji of the Year, reflecting heightened public attention to wildlife-related issues over the past year. The choice was influenced by a noticeable increase in bear sightings and encounters in residential and agricultural areas, which drew widespread media coverage and public concern. Factors such as climate change, habitat loss, changes in food availability, and declining rural populations have contributed to bears moving closer to human settlements. As a result, “Kuma” came to symbolize the growing tension between human activity and the natural environment, as well as the challenges of managing wildlife in a changing ecological and social landscape. The selection of “Kuma” carries broader significance beyond its literal meaning. The Kanji of the Year is traditionally chosen to capture the mood and defining issues of society, and this choice highlights rising awareness of environmental sustainability and coexistence with nature. It has prompted renewed discussion about conservation policies, wildlife management strategies, and the need for balanced approaches that protect both human safety and animal habitats. Educational institutions, local governments, and environmental groups have used the moment to emphasize responsible land use and long-term ecological planning. Overall, the designation of “Kuma” as the Kanji of the Year reflects a collective recognition that environmental and wildlife issues have become central social concerns, underscoring the interconnected relationship between humans, climate, and the natural world.