This project takes up three lines of analysis to understand the specific rhetoric of apologia utilized by PM Koizumi. First, this study conducted neo-Aristotelian criticism to consider how PM Koizumi made use of available means of persuasion to pursue his desired agenda with the Koreans. Second, ‘cultural studies’ categories were employed for analyzing audience receptions of why Koreans have not accepted the Japanese apology. Finally, this study used ideological criticism (interpretive analysis of language choice; metaphor and framing) to highlight the conflicts Koizumi has with nationalistic ideologies for Japan to achieve effective reconciliation. The conclusion speculates about what factors would be needed for Japan to achieve reconciliation with Korea. Two different types of communication problems are isolated: one is the lack of understanding of how the Korean people perceive Koizumi’s statement, and the other is the communication difficulties in different rhetorical situations.

Key words: Rhetorical Apology; Persuasion; Reconciliation; Japan; Korea