Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has rejected South Korea's protest over controversial remarks made by Japan's foreign minister concerning Tokyo's territorial claim to the Korean islets of Dokdo.

Speaking at a parliamentary meeting Thursday, Prime Minister Noda said Seoul has protested Gemba's comments on the islets and asked him to immediately withdraw his remarks. He said Japan has made it clear that it cannot accept that demand.

Noda added that Tokyo will exert strenuous diplomatic efforts to peacefully resolve the Dokdo issue.

Making a foreign policy speech in parliament Tuesday, Foreign Minister Gemba, referring to the Dokdo dispute, said he will be firm and tell South Korea that what is unacceptable is unacceptable.