This presentation discusses what empathy is in terms of interactional competence, and problematizes the current scope of L2 pragmatic instruction. Constructing empathetic moments together with the interlocutor is critical in order to build social relationships and social solidarity. However, the ways in which L2 speakers display empathy (or not) in ordinary conversations lack in-depth discussion. Using conversation analysis, we analyze empathetic moments between Swedish and Japanese advanced users of English and discuss possible interventions.