740.00119 Control (Korea)/8–2147: Telegram
The Political Adviser in Korea (Jacobs) to the Secretary of State
292. Zpol 1080. For Penfield, Office Far Eastern Affairs: Group on American delegation of Joint Commission including myself sent [Page 761] to Dept in Seoul PolAd 269, August 10, two comments on appendix D of SWNCC’s proposal contained in War 83671 (081300Z). In addition I have another observation which some of the others here handling this matter do not seem to consider important.
After more than 2 years of effort to reunite Korea and set up a government therein, I feel that it is high time to get away from the “provisional” concept of the govt to be established. If possible a govt of permanent character should be established with permanent constitution which can only be changed in accordance with normal procedures laid down therein, subject to possible veto over such changes by those powers who accord aid and assistance [apparent omission] are adversely affected.
My reasoning is based on belief that Soviets prefer “provisional” type of government as it gives them and their stooges breathing spell during which they can carry on friendly relations with the rightist groups until they have wheedled themselves into key positions. When that time comes, they point out that the system is only provisional and that new elections must be held to establish permanent people’s democratic govt. When that govt is established “à la Soviet”, the stage is all set for the kill and the rightists discover too late they are in for liquidation.
I realize that Soviet intrigue and duplicity may attain same results under a “permanent” governmental set-up but it will be more difficult because in order to accomplish their purposes Soviet stooges will not have breathing spell to establish themselves before they strike and if they have to strike quickly their chances of success are less.
In drafting new proposals, therefore, consideration should be given to the idea of establishing a “permanent” govt in Korea rather than of perpetuating a “provisional” state.
- Received August 22. Printed from corrected copy received August 30.↩