Key Facts
• 2025 marks 80 years since the Hiroshima atomic bombing.
• NHK Hiroshima created a VR experience of Mitsuo Kodama’s survival story.
• Kodama, a student at Hiroshima First Middle School, was 850 meters from ground zero.
• The VR depicts collapsing buildings, raging fires, and cries for help.
• Kodama tried rescuing classmates trapped under debris as flames spread.
• 150 students were in the school; only 19 returned to study post-war.
• Kodama began sharing his testimony later in life despite undergoing 20+ cancer surgeries.
• A VR event in May 2025 in Hiroshima drew 125 participants over three days.
• Participants, including an 84-year-old woman, were deeply moved by the experience.
• NHK aims to pass on survivors’ stories to younger generations using digital tools.
Summary
To commemorate 80 years since the Hiroshima bombing, NHK Hiroshima developed a VR experience based on survivor Mitsuo Kodama’s testimony. Kodama, who was 850 meters from the blast, witnessed harrowing scenes of destruction and loss. The VR recreates his efforts to save classmates amidst fires and chaos. Only 19 of 150 students at his school survived to resume studies post-war. Kodama, who endured over 20 cancer surgeries, dedicated his later years to sharing his story. A May 2025 VR event in Hiroshima attracted 125 participants, leaving many emotionally impacted. NHK’s initiative aims to preserve and convey these memories to younger generations through advanced digital technology.
