What's happened
As the 80th anniversary of VJ Day is marked, UK and Japan hold remembrance events honoring veterans and reflecting on the war's enduring impact. UK veterans and officials participate in ceremonies, while Japan reflects on its wartime history through museums and memorials. The events underscore the ongoing importance of remembrance and reconciliation.
What's behind the headline?
The commemorations serve multiple purposes: honoring veterans, reinforcing alliances, and promoting historical reflection. UK events focus on veterans' sacrifices, including those who fought in Burma and the Pacific, emphasizing the 'forgotten war' and its significance. Meanwhile, Japan's museums and memorials aim to foster understanding of wartime history, acknowledging the suffering and consequences. The UK and Japan's contrasting approaches—celebration versus reflection—highlight differing national narratives but share a common goal of remembrance. The UK’s focus on veterans and military history underscores a desire to preserve the memory of sacrifice, while Japan’s emphasis on museums and education aims to confront and understand its wartime past. These events will likely strengthen diplomatic ties and promote ongoing dialogue about history and reconciliation. The presence of high-profile figures, including the UK Prime Minister and Japanese officials, indicates the importance placed on these commemorations as a means of fostering peace and mutual understanding.
What the papers say
The Japan Times reports on the UK and Japan commemorations, emphasizing the participation of veterans and officials, and highlighting the importance of remembrance. The Scotsman features personal stories of veterans, including Stuart Guild and Albert Lamond, emphasizing the human cost of war and the significance of VJ Day. The Independent covers the UK’s official ceremonies, including the attendance of the Royal British Legion and the Prime Minister, and discusses the broader political and cultural significance of the anniversary. Meanwhile, The Japan Times discusses Japan’s approach to remembrance through museums and historical reflection, noting that few in Japan dwell on the wartime realities beyond official ceremonies. The contrasting coverage underscores the different national narratives—UK’s focus on honoring sacrifice and Japan’s on historical reflection—yet both aim to preserve the memory of WWII’s impact.
How we got here
The 80th anniversary of VJ Day on August 15, 2025, marks Japan's surrender in WWII after atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. UK and Japan commemorate the end of the war through ceremonies, reflecting on the sacrifices made and the importance of remembrance. UK veterans of the Pacific theater and Japanese war museums highlight the long-lasting effects of the conflict.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Does the UK Still Commemorate VJ Day Today?
VJ Day marks the end of World War II in the Pacific, and the UK continues to honor this significant anniversary. Many wonder why these commemorations are still so important decades later. In this page, we explore the reasons behind the ongoing remembrance, the events happening this year, and what VJ Day means for Britain today.
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What Is the Significance of the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day?
The 80th anniversary of VJ Day marks a pivotal moment in history, commemorating Japan's surrender in World War II and the end of a devastating conflict. As nations reflect on this milestone, many wonder how these commemorations shape our understanding of peace, sacrifice, and history today. Below, we explore key questions about this important anniversary and its ongoing legacy.
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What Are the Key Global News Stories Today?
Stay updated with the most important news from around the world today. From rising crime in Washington, D.C., to the anniversary of WWII's end, and ongoing crises in Afghanistan, these stories shape our global landscape. Curious about how these events connect or what they mean for the future? Read on for clear, concise answers to your top questions.
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How Are Countries Marking War Anniversaries and What Do They Mean Today?
Every year, nations around the world commemorate significant war anniversaries to honor sacrifices, reflect on history, and promote peace. Recent events, like the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, highlight how different countries remember their past and what messages they aim to send for the future. But what do these commemorations really mean today, and how do they influence current international relations? Below, we explore the significance of these memorials and what lessons they carry forward.
More on these topics
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The Royal British Legion, sometimes called The British Legion or The Legion, is a British charity providing financial, social and emotional support to members and veterans of the British Armed Forces, their families and dependants.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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World War II, also known as the Second World War, was a global war that lasted from 1939 to 1945. It involved the vast majority of the world's countries—including all the great powers—forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis.