Japan Commemorates the End of World War II: Survivors Reflect on the Emperor's Surrender Speech from 80 Years Ago

1. Marking the 80th Anniversary of the End of the War

On August 15, 2025, Japan marked exactly 80 years since the end of World War II. Memorial ceremonies were held across the country, with a moment of silence observed at noon to mourn the war dead and victims of war-related disasters. In Tokyo, the government-hosted National Memorial Service for the War Dead took place at the Nippon Budokan, attended by the Emperor and Empress, the Prime Minister, members of parliament, and representatives of bereaved families. Local governments and schools nationwide also held their own memorial events, renewing the resolve that "the memory of war must not fade."

This milestone is not merely a historical marker but is also referred to as "the last era when survivors can still share their experiences." Considering the average lifespan, many direct witnesses are over 90 years old, leaving limited time to hear their testimonies. This is why this year's ceremony is being received with more weight than usual.

2. The Significance of the Gyokuon Broadcast

At noon on August 15, 1945, people across Japan listened to the radio as Emperor Showa delivered the Imperial Rescript on the Termination of the War. This historic broadcast later became known as the "Gyokuon Broadcast."

For the Japanese people at the time, the Emperor was considered a "living god," and hearing his voice directly was unprecedented. This made the broadcast particularly significant. Although the classical language used was difficult for the general public to understand, the atmosphere of the broadcast and the fact that "the war was ending" left a strong impression on everyone.

The rescript, beginning with "We have resolved to pave the way for a grand peace for all generations to come by enduring the unendurable and suffering what is insufferable," avoided directly acknowledging military defeat but urged the nation to accept the end of the war. The famous passage—"to endure the unendurable and suffer what is insufferable"—remains a symbol of the resolve to accept defeat.

3. Testimonies of War Survivors

Memories of Evacuation

A woman in her 90s who attended the ceremony shared her childhood experience of being evacuated to the countryside. "Our house was burned in an air raid, and my family was separated. Life in the rural area was a constant battle with hunger, with nothing to eat."

The Terror of Air Raids

Another survivor recounted the Tokyo air raids. "Incendiary bombs rained down, turning the city into a sea of fire. I fled desperately with my mother, but when I looked back, many people were engulfed in flames."

Hunger and Defeat

Others spoke of the food shortages immediately after the defeat. "There was no rice, and we even ate sweet potatoes and things like weeds. Some people died of hunger. We survived only because we were desperate."

These testimonies vividly convey the horrors of war and serve as important records for future generations.

4. Post-War Reconstruction and the Path of a Peaceful Nation

After the defeat, Japan rebuilt from the ashes and grew into one of the world's leading economic powers in just a few decades. Infrastructure development, rapid economic growth, and reintegration into the international community marked this process, during which Japan established itself as a nation that renounces war under its peace constitution.

During the Cold War, Japan signed a security treaty with the United States while pursuing peaceful diplomacy. Reconciliation with Asian countries and contributions in international cooperation forums were also advanced, leading to Japan's recognition as a "nation that does not wage war."

5. The Challenge of Fading Memories and Legacy

However, the passage of 80 years carries the risk of turning war experiences into "distant memories." Many young people perceive war as merely "something learned in history class."

Efforts continue in educational settings to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki on school trips, but this alone is not enough. New approaches are being explored, such as preserving memories through video and digital archives and recreating testimonies using AI.

6. Japan's Responsibility in the International Community

As Japan marks 80 years since the end of the war, it faces renewed scrutiny over its responsibilities as a peaceful nation in the international community. With generations without war experiences becoming central in politics, how to build historical awareness and relations with neighboring countries becomes a challenge.

Japan should leverage its voice as a "nation that has experienced the horrors of war" in reconciliation with Asian countries, peacekeeping activities at the United Nations, and efforts toward nuclear disarmament.

7. The Meaning of the 80th Year

This year's milestone is not just a commemoration but also a warning for the future. As the generation that directly experienced war gradually disappears, our "responsibility to choose peace" becomes increasingly significant.

One survivor spoke at the ceremony, saying, "We can only share our stories for a little longer. Please do not take this peace for granted and continue to protect it."

These words challenge us, living today, across 80 years of history.

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