The failed August 1945 coup attempt intended to stop Japan's surrender was the Kyūjō incident.
The attempted coup took place during the night of 14–15 August 1945, just before Emperor Hirohito's surrender recording was broadcast. Major Kenji Hatanaka and other officers sought to seize the Imperial Palace, prevent access to the recording, and keep Japan from accepting the Allied terms.
The plotters attempted to obtain support from senior Army leaders, but the most senior officers ultimately upheld the emperor's decision. Hatanaka's group temporarily occupied parts of the palace complex and searched for the recording, but they failed to locate it. The recording was transmitted at noon on 15 August, and the rebellion collapsed soon afterward.
The incident is also called the Imperial Palace incident. It illustrates that Japan's surrender was not a simple or unanimous decision. Military hardliners opposed capitulation even after the emperor intervened, while other officials concluded that continuing the war would bring even greater destruction.