The sculpture is based on a photograph taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt on August 14, 1945.
The original sculpture was created by Seward Johnson, who specialized in life-size bronze casts but utilized foam and resin for this large-scale project.
This specific installation at Tuna Harbor Park became a permanent fixture in 2013 after a successful fundraising campaign.
The subjects in the original photo were identified decades later as George Mendonsa and Greta Zimmer Friedman.
The sculpture is approximately 25 feet tall, significantly larger than the humans depicted in the original photograph.
The piece is frequently nicknamed 'The Kiss' by locals and tourists alike.
Unconditional Surrender, also known as Embracing Peace, is a 25-foot-tall painted foam and fiberglass sculpture depicting the iconic V-J Day in Times Square kiss. Created by artist Seward Johnson, the statue recreates the 1945 photograph by Alfred Eisenstaedt featuring a sailor kissing a nurse. It is positioned on the San Diego waterfront along Tuna Harbor Park. The current statue is a permanent installation following a series of temporary rotations at this site. The sculpture weighs several tons and is secured to a concrete base to withstand coastal winds. It serves as a tribute to the end of World War II and the joy felt upon the sailors' return to the United States. The installation is maintained as part of the public art collection near the Port of San Diego.
Stand on the harbor-facing side of the statue to capture the kiss with the San Diego Bay and Coronado Bridge in the background.
Visit during the late afternoon to catch the sunset behind the statue, which creates a striking silhouette against the bay.
The waterfront path can be windy; bring a light jacket even on sunny days.
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Embarcadero for views of the USS Midway Museum.
Do not attempt to climb or touch the sculpture, as the surface material is prone to damage.
