Japanese National Identity and the Takeshima/Dokdo Dispute: Constructing National Identity Discourse around South Korea

Abstract: National identity is used as a representation of what a country wants to transmit as its own impression of ‘self’, and usually it is formed around the concept of an ‘other’. Nonetheless, if two national identities are contradictory; it can hinder the development of desirable bilateral relations, which is the case of Japan and South Korea. Taking the Takeshima/Dokdo territorial dispute as a reference of a political symbol that stirs identity sentiments, this thesis aimed to unveil the construction of Japanese national identity regarding its South Korean neighbour as an ‘other’. In order to achieve this, the Japanese government’s discourse concerning its stance over the Takeshima/Dokdo dispute was interpreted using discourse analysis methodology. Government documents such as reports, informational pamphlets, press conferences and statements by high ranked politicians are among the collected data that served as empirical data. Using the national identity and the critical constructivism theories as the main guide, this thesis was able to determine four discourses. The idea that Japan wants to disassociate itself from its shared memories with South Korea as it is following the peaceful and legal path while looking out for internal and external support for recognition is the principal idea behind these discourses.