China Marks 80th Anniversary of Victory Over Japan

China is set to commemorate the 80th anniversary of its victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War with a series of events. These activities will encompass cultural performances, art exhibitions, and media programming.

Evening Gala Planned

A grand literary and artistic evening is scheduled for September 3rd in Beijing. It will be a joint effort by the Central Propaganda Department, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the China Central Radio and Television Station, the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission, and the Beijing Municipal Government.

**Lu Yingchuan**, Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism, emphasized that the gala will maintain a “grand and simple, inspiring and profound general tone.” The goal is to deliver an exceptional and moving performance.

Art and Stage Performances

From August to October, an exhibition of outstanding stage art works will take place, showcasing around 20 plays in Beijing’s major theaters. Simultaneously, the China Art Museum will host an art exhibition from August to September, displaying over 300 art pieces, including Chinese and oil paintings.

Extensive Media Coverage

Radio, television, and online platforms are gearing up to release a range of themed content. This includes television series, documentaries, and short dramas. In addition, a wide selection of classic audio-visual works related to the Anti-Japanese War will be featured. Special segments and programs will also be broadcasted across various media outlets.

**Liu Jianguo**, deputy director of the State Administration of Radio and Television, stated that the media initiatives will “meet with everyone one after another, forming a resonance between online and offline, telling stories of the War of Resistance, and carrying forward the spirit of the War of Resistance.”

National Broadcaster’s Role

China Central Radio and Television (CCTV) is dedicating significant resources to cover the anniversary. An elite team has been formed to ensure high-quality reporting of the central government’s commemorative events.

**Wang Xiaozhen**, deputy director of the China Central Radio and Television Station, said CCTV has planned special films, documentaries, and programs that highlight the significance of the victory and China’s contributions to the global fight against fascism. In related news, a recent survey found that 78% of Chinese citizens believe it is important to continue educating future generations about the war (Global Times 2023).

Memorial Hall Exhibition

A thematic exhibition, titled “For National Liberation and World Peace,” will commence on July 7th at the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression Memorial Hall. The exhibition comprises eight sections and employs modern methods to showcase cultural relics and archival documents.

**Luo Cunkang**, director of the memorial hall, said the exhibition aims to “Remembering history, remembering martyrs, cherishing peace, and creating the future.” The exhibition spans 12,200 square meters and features 1,525 photos and 3,237 cultural relics. It will serve as a long-term, basic exhibition.