STANDARDIZATION OF LOGOGRAPHIC WRITING IN CHINA AND JAPAN FROM THE SECOND HALF OF THE 20TH CENTURY TO THE EARLY 21ST CENTURY

Krneta Natalija, Bakhmatova Anna

This article explores the processes of regulation and standardization of logographic writing systems in China and Japan from the second half of the 20th century to the early 21st century. The study addresses the historical, social, and political motivations behind script reforms, the methods of their implementation, and the outcomes achieved in both countries. Particular attention is given to a comparative analysis of approaches: in Japan, the reforms were initiated during postwar transformations under both external and internal influences, and were accompanied by the introduction of detailed lists of frequently used characters, as well as standardized readings and written forms. In China, the reforms were driven by policies aimed at increasing literacy and involved a broad campaign of simplification and elimination of graphic variants. The article emphasizes that neither country imposed strict limitations on the use of characters outside of official lists, and that practical acquisition of literacy continues to depend on a combination of official norms and actual language usage.

Keywords:Language policy, script standardization, logography, simplified characters, script reform.