Han Script Single Character IDN Generic Top-Level Domains

What We Need Your Input On

In preparation for the New gTLD Program: Next Round, ICANN org worked with the Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Script Generation Panels (CJK GPs) to seek their guidance on string similarity concerns for single character IDN gTLD applications in the Han script. The CJK GPs agreed that the work already done in the Root Zone Label Generation Rules (RZ-LGRs) sufficiently addresses the technical and linguistic concerns around string similarity for single character IDN TLDs.

Feedback is requested on the Proposed Considerations for the Application of Single Character IDN Generic Top-Level Domains based on the analysis and conclusions shared by the CJK GPs.

Background

The Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO) Final Report on the new gTLD Subsequent Procedures Policy Development Process, Recommendation 25.4 on the single character gTLDs, stated that single character gTLDs may be allowed for a character in ideograph (or ideogram) script. The GNSO’s Phase 1 Final Report on the Internationalized Domain Names Expedited Policy Development Process (IDN EPDP Phase 1) further stated that:

“...the only script that meets the criteria is the Han script, which is used in the Chinese, Japanese, and Korean languages. Nevertheless, applications for single-character gTLDs that are ideographs must not be accepted until relevant guidelines from the Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Generation Panels are developed, finalized after Public Comment, and implemented in the New gTLD Program. In the event that the Generation Panels determine such additional guidelines beyond the analysis already provided in the RZ-LGR unnecessary, applications for single-character gTLDs in the Han script shall be accepted.”

Since March 2022, ICANN org has been working with the Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Script Generation Panels (CJK GPs) to seek their guidance on single character IDN gTLD applications in the Han script. Based on internal consultations and discussions, the CJK GPs agreed that the work already conducted to identify the code points and their variant code points in Root Zone Label Generation Rules (RZ-LGR) sufficiently addresses the technical and linguistic concerns around string similarity for single character IDN TLDs. The position of the CJK GPs is being published for any further input from the broader ICANN community.

*NOTE: A previous version of the background was updated for clarity. An ambiguous word was corrected above.

Next Steps

After the Public Comment proceeding is closed, taking into account the input received, ICANN org will coordinate with the CJK GPs to finalize the considerations for the application of single character IDN generic top-level domains. The final considerations will be a part of the New gTLD Program: Next Round implementation.

Supporting Information

This additional information from ICANN org provides more context for this Public Comment Proceeding and may help you review the proposals for input and publish a submission.