When was the formal Japanese surrender signed aboard USS Missouri?

The formal Japanese surrender was signed aboard USS Missouri on September 2, 1945.

The ceremony took place on the battleship’s deck in Tokyo Bay, shortly after 9 a.m. Japan Standard Time. Japanese representatives signed the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, followed by representatives of the Allied powers. The document formally ended hostilities between Japan and the Allies and marked the end of World War II in Asia.

This date differs from August 15, when Emperor Hirohito announced Japan’s decision to surrender by radio. August 15 is the principal surrender-announcement date in Japan and much of the British Commonwealth, while September 2 refers to the legal and ceremonial signing.

General Douglas MacArthur opened the ceremony and accepted the surrender for the Allied powers. The instrument took effect at approximately 9:25 a.m. The ceremony lasted about 23 minutes and was broadcast internationally.