Foreign Relations of the United States, Diplomatic Papers, 1945, The British Commonwealth, The Far East, Volume VI

740.00119 Control (Korea)/11–745: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman)

Washington, November 7, 1945—8 p.m.

2304. Cable report from ComGen USAFIK (Hodge) reports employees of Korea Power Company informed him that orders had been received from Soviets Nov 7 to move out all generators and water-wheels of Yalux River power plants. Overhead cranes being put in condition to start stripping by Nov 8, on orders alleged to have been received from Red Army. Removal of such equipment would affect 50 per cent of total power production in Korea. While these reports are unconfirmed similar reports concerning the removal of other heavy machinery and equipment are current. In your discretion you should point out that actions such as those outlined above, may prejudice the commitments of the two govts with regard to Korea, particularly in view of the vital importance of equipment such as Yalu power plants to the economic life of the country as a whole. In view of urgency of this matter your action should not be unduly delayed.

Byrnes