NHK WORLD-JAPAN Radio initiates 24-Hour shortwave transmissions following developments in Iran

NHK has commenced temporary 24-hour shortwave transmissions of its Japanese-language international service, NHK WORLD-JAPAN Radio, in response to the evolving situation in Iran. Effective today, this measure aligns with NHK’s mandate as an international public service media organization to provide essential information and safety updates to Japanese citizens residing in or visiting the affected region.

Due to the attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel, internet connectivity and international  telephone services in the region have become unstable, resulting in limited access to information in  Japanese. In response, NHK has begun temporary shortwave transmissions of its Japanese-language  international radio service, NHK WORLD-JAPAN Radio, to provide essential information to Japanese  nationals staying in the area. These broadcasts started at 11:30 a.m. (Japan Standard Time) on Sunday,  March 1. 

NHK normally broadcasts six hours of shortwave programming per day to the Middle East. However,  in view of the current situation, the broadcast schedule has been expanded to provide continuous 24- hour service. In addition to content from NHK Radio 1, the broadcasts will include timely safety and  security information for those in the region. 

For those in neighboring countries or other areas where internet access remains available, NHK also  provides Japanese-language news on the NHK WORLD-JAPAN website, along with simultaneous and  on-demand streaming of its television and radio programs. We encourage people to use these trusted  sources to help ensure their safety. 

Details of the Temporary Transmission 
During the temporary transmission period, NHK will provide simultaneous broadcasts of NHK Radio  1, along with NHK WORLD-JAPAN’s own Japanese-language international news and “Overseas Safety  Information,” which focuses on travel advisories issued by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including  updates related to the situation in Iran. Because shortwave broadcasts can be transmitted directly from  Japan, they are considered less susceptible to restrictions by local authorities. 

The broadcast frequencies will change as needed (subsequent frequencies are listed on the next page). Information on the frequencies and other details of the temporary transmissions will be announced on  the Japanese-language website of NHK WORLD-JAPAN.

LC