Emperor Hirohito announced Japan’s acceptance of the Allied surrender terms by radio on 15 August 1945.
The broadcast was made at noon Japan Standard Time and became known as the Gyokuon-hōsō, or “Jewel Voice Broadcast.” It was the first time most Japanese people had heard the emperor’s voice. Hirohito referred indirectly to the atomic bombings and the changing military situation, saying Japan had decided to accept the terms of the Potsdam Declaration.
The recording had been made on 14 August and survived an attempted coup by military officers who wanted to prevent the broadcast. The emperor’s formal language was difficult for many listeners to understand, so officials and newspapers soon clarified that Japan had surrendered.
This announcement date is not the same as the date of the formal signing. Japan’s representatives signed the Instrument of Surrender aboard USS Missouri on 2 September. In the United States, the announcement was heard on 14 August because of the time difference, creating different V-J Day observances.