A character input system and method is provided that enables a user to input and edit block characters via a touch-based electronic device, with a limited number of input motions. The character input method includes receiving a first interaction, displaying a first character in response to the first interaction, receiving a second interaction successively after the first interaction, identifying a second character that is formed by combining the first character with a character according to the second interaction, and displaying the second character instead of the first character.