Translation guide
The Arctic is the region around the North Pole. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to as 北極 (ほっきょく), but the way you express it depends on whether you mean the geographic point, the region, or the ocean.
the Arctic
Referring to the area around the North Pole, including land and sea.
The most common and general term for the Arctic. Can refer to the North Pole itself or the surrounding region.
The Arctic is at the northernmost part of the Earth.
The Arctic ice is melting.
Specifically means 'the Arctic region' or 'Arctic area', emphasizing the geographical zone.
Indigenous peoples live in the Arctic region.
Means 'the Arctic Circle'. Used when referring to the area within the Arctic Circle.
In the Arctic Circle, you can see the midnight sun in summer.
Referring specifically to the ocean around the North Pole.
The standard term for the Arctic Ocean.
Shipping routes in the Arctic Ocean are opening up.
Referring to the exact point at 90°N latitude.
北極 (ほっきょく) is the Arctic/North Pole, while 南極 (なんきょく) is the Antarctic/South Pole. They are distinct and not interchangeable.
サンタクロースは北極に住んでいると言われています。
Santa Claus is said to live at the North Pole.