501.BB Korea/2–948: Telegram
The Political Adviser in Korea (Jacobs) to the Secretary of State
66. Cite Zpol 1284. For such value as it may have in persuading political leaders in hiding to appear before UN Commission, General Hodge issued on February 9 statement quoted below for radio and press dissemination. In this connection see General Dean’s order quoted Seoul PolAd 28, January 29.1
“The United Nations temporary commission on Korea is anxious to consult with Koreans of all political beliefs and from time to time will issue invitations to selected individuals to appear before subcommittees of the commission.
As stated to the commission in my letter of 5 February 1948 I am in full accord with its efforts to get a complete picture of the political situation. I have directed all agencies of the South Korean Interim Govt and of my command to make every effort to insure that those individuals who are invited by the United Nations Commission and accept invitations to appear before that body be given every assistance in attending and will not be interfered with or be subject to retaliation by political opponents.”
- Not printed; Maj. Gen. William F. Dean was Military Governor of South Korea.↩