Japan announced 'Bear' as the kanji, or Chinese character, of the year 2019. The selection was made by the Japanese Kanji Proficiency Society through an annual vote. The character 'Bear' ('Kuma' in Japanese) represents the year's events encapsulating strength, persistence and protection in the face of adversity, according to the Society.

Every year, Japan selects a 'kanji' of the year through a national vote. The selected kanji encapsulates the prevailing mood or events of the year. It's a cherished tradition that embodies the country's cultural affinity for symbolism. It's perceived as a fun, reflective practice that engrosses not just linguists, but the general public as well.

In the USA or EU, there's no direct comparison to this symbolic practice. However, similar practices include Person of the Year by Time Magazine, named after the individual who has most influenced the year's events for good or ill. Another comparison could be Pantone's 'Color of the Year', representing the mood and attitude of the upcoming year.