King Charles to Deliver Commonwealth Message Marking 80th Anniversary of VJ Day

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His Majesty King Charles III will issue a significant audio message next week to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Japan (VJ) Day, bringing attention to a defining moment in world history. The announcement from Buckingham Palace confirms the King’s pre-recorded message will be shared with the Commonwealth on Friday, August 15, aligning with global commemorations of the end of the Second World War.

VJ Day, also known as Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day in countries such as Australia, commemorates Japan’s surrender in 1945, effectively bringing the Second World War to a close. King Charles’ message is expected to reference the historic address delivered by his grandfather, King George VI, who spoke to the nation on 15 August 1945, marking the official end of global conflict. In that address, King George VI gave thanks for the war’s end and paid tribute to those who had made the ultimate sacrifice, stating, “Japan has surrendered, so let us join in thanking Almighty God that war has ended throughout the world… I ask you again at this solemn hour to remember all who have laid down their lives, and all who have endured the loss of those they love.”

The Palace has also published a detailed programme of royal engagements to accompany the anniversary. The royal family will take part in commemorative events across the United Kingdom, paying respect to veterans and those who served in the Far East campaign.

Among the scheduled appearances, The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will attend a service at the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle. The Duchess is also set to meet Jim Wren, a Second World War veteran who served on HMS Repulse and was later held as a prisoner of war on the island of Sumatra.

Meanwhile, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester will join a service at Norwich Cathedral dedicated to former Far East prisoners of war. Following this, they will attend a separate event in Suffolk honouring the children and families of those who were interned.

A national service is also scheduled, followed by a reception where members of the royal family will meet with surviving veterans. These events echo earlier commemorations this year, when the nation marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day in May.

The 80th anniversary of VJ Day is a solemn reminder of the cost of war and the courage of those who fought and endured captivity. The King’s forthcoming message is expected to continue the tradition of royal reflection and national remembrance, honouring a generation that helped restore peace and rebuild a shattered world.