Emperor Hirohito announced Japan’s acceptance of the Potsdam Declaration on August 15, 1945.
The announcement was delivered through a radio address later known as the Jewel Voice Broadcast, or Gyokuon-hōsō. It was recorded on August 14 and broadcast shortly after noon Japan Standard Time on August 15.
This date is commonly associated with V-J Day in Japan and many Allied countries, although the United States often marked August 14 because of the time difference. The formal surrender document was not signed until September 2, 1945, so the announcement and the legal end of hostilities are distinct milestones.
Hirohito’s speech used formal and indirect language, and many listeners did not immediately hear the word “surrender.” Radio announcers clarified its meaning after the broadcast.