740.00119 Control (Korea)/7–247: Telegram
Lieutenant General John R. Hodge to the Secretary of State
Zgcg 851. American delegation of Joint Commission arrived in Pyongyang station at 0800, 30 June. It was welcomed by General Shtikov, a Russian band and escort of honor. No Koreans were present or visible in the near vicinity of the station which was heavily guarded.
General Brown and the American Commissioners were conducted to a house which had been prepared for their use and the remainder of the American delegation to a hotel. General Brown called on General Korotkov13 at 1000, interview was without incident and lasted 30 minutes. Korotkov informed General Brown he could go wherever he wished and see whomever he pleased. Joint Commission met at 1400 [Page 685] with General Korotkov presiding. Present were members of both delegations, the Soviet staff, Korean officials of North Korea and the Soviet and Korean press of North Korea. Speeches by Korotkov, Brown and Shtikov. American press was not present due to absence of authority from Soviet Command.
At 1630 American and Soviet delegation with Korean notables including Kim Il Sung14 reviewed a crowd of demonstrators estimated at 50,000. These demonstrators carried streamers and banners with party legends, numerous Russian and Korean flags, and pictures of Stalin and Kim Il Sung. No US flags were visible. Speeches by the Korean notables to the crowd were received with loud acclamation. They were political in nature and followed the current Communist Party line in Korea in every respect.
As far as could be determined from translation, not a single kind word was spoken concerning the Americans. After the speeches the demonstrators passed the reviewing stand in a parade which lasted over 2 hours. The entire ceremony was well organized, well conducted and without disorder. Most of the demonstrators were youthful and included many females. The enthusiasm seemed genuine.
At 2030 the American delegation was entertained at the Soviet Officers’ Club by a chorus of about 30 voices and an orchestra, all of the Red Army. Present also were Russian officers and dependents, no Koreans. The performance was excellent and was thoroughly enjoyed. The 36th meeting of the Joint Commission is being held at 1400 July 1 in Pyongyang. This is the counterpart to the meeting which was held Seoul on 25 June. The Joint Commission will meet the representatives of the parties and social organizations of North Korea.