What past events shaped the darker mood behind the vote?

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Past Events Shaping Japan's Kanji of the Year Choice

Japan's selection of the kanji character for "war" (戦) as its symbol for 2022 reflects a year overshadowed by significant global and domestic turmoil. The annual public vote, organised by the Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation, saw this character emerge as the most representative of the anxieties and events experienced throughout the year. This choice underscores a palpable shift towards a more somber national sentiment compared to previous years, such as 2021 when Olympic-themed characters dominated.
Russia's Invasion of Ukraine Sparked Global Anxiety

The unprovoked invasion of Ukraine by Russia, which commenced in February 2022, cast a long shadow over global affairs and deeply impacted the public consciousness in Japan. This act of aggression was cited by the organising foundation as a primary cause of anxiety, highlighting its role in shaping the collective mood. The distant conflict evoked feelings of surprise, frustration, anger, and sadness among voters, coupled with a sense of helplessness regarding their inability to influence the situation.
Assassination of Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe

The shocking assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in July 2022 added another layer of profound distress to the year's events. Abe, a towering figure in Japanese politics, was shot while delivering a campaign speech. The circumstances surrounding his death, reportedly linked to a man's resentment towards the Unification Church, sent ripples of disbelief and sorrow across the nation. This high-profile tragedy contributed significantly to the darker atmosphere that permeated the year, influencing the public's choice of a kanji character to encapsulate such profound loss and shock.
Economic Concerns Over Yen Depreciation and Inflation

Beyond geopolitical and domestic security concerns, significant economic anxieties also played a crucial role in the selection of the "war" kanji. The rapid depreciation of the Japanese yen throughout 2022, coupled with rising inflation, directly impacted the daily lives of many citizens. These economic pressures created a sense of insecurity and hardship, prompting a strong public sentiment that resonated with the chosen character. A secondary choice, the character meaning "cheap and safe," further illustrated these economic worries, indicating a public preoccupation with financial stability and affordability in the face of a weakening currency.

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What past events shaped the darker mood behind the vote?

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