Japan regulates glittering names: End with Pikachu & Co.!

Japan regulates glittering names: End with Pikachu & Co.!

Japan - Japan recently introduced new regulations to regulate the spelling and pronunciation of names. These new rules that aim to control the increase in so-called "Kira Kira" names that are translated as "glittering names" have arisen from a growing need for clarity in the naming. Parents can choose from 2,999 Kanji characters, but the creative combinations of these signs have often led to confusion, especially when the chosen names of conventional pronunciations differ reports, "> that many parents create names like Pikachu or Hello Kitty.

This practice, which gained importance in the 1980s, reflects a cultural change in which individuality and influence of pop culture are emphasized. Kira Kira names often use unusual Kanji signs and switch away from the typical pronunciation conventions. For example, the name 光宙, which means "lighting space", is read as "pikachu" Naming.

The family registration legislation, which was updated on June 2, 2023, which came into force on May 26, stipulates that the correct Furigana readings in Hiragana or Katakana must be given for names. These phonetic guides are necessary to avoid misunderstandings in pronunciation. Older people who already have a Kira Kira name are not obliged to change their name ban, but only restrict the unorthodox pronunciation.

Kira Kira names are not only a fashion phenomenon, but also raise relevant social issues. Critics fear that such names treat the children as accessories and, potentially, make life difficult for them. Difficulties in school and in professional life could be the result indicates that the popularity of such names as well as can promote social exclusion.

In addition to the challenges at Kira Kira names, there is also another aspect of Japanese naming law, which dates from 1898. This requires both spouses lead the same last name and prohibit double names. The Supreme Court of Japan has declared this name right to be constitutional, which is a defeat for many women, especially professional active people. Political scientist Verena Blechinger-Talcott argues that many women want to keep their original names in order to maintain their professional identity they emphasized the meaning of the meaning of women in women in Japan.