501.BB Korea/2–2748: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Acting Political Adviser in Korea (Langdon)
59. In event Gen. Hodge feels it would serve useful purpose in Korea, Dept would have no objection his issuing statement along following lines:
“My Government welcomes the action of the Interim Commission of the United Nations in adopting its resolution of February 26 expressing its view that the United Nations Temporary Commission on Korea should proceed with its task as stated in the resolution of the General Assembly adopted on November 14, 1947 in such parts of Korea as are accessible to it. My Government is happy to renew its pledge of the full support and cooperation of the United States authorities both in Korea and in Washington for the successful conclusion of those tasks. This development is in keeping with the declared objectives of the United States with respect to Korea and the Korean people: (1) To establish a self-governing, sovereign Korea as soon as possible, independent of foreign control and eligible for membership in the United Nations; (2) to insure that the national government so established shall be fully representative of the freely expressed will of the Korean people; and (3) to assist the Koreans in establishing a sound economy and adequate educational system as essential bases of an independent, democratic state”.1
- Telegram 123, March 2, from Seoul, reported that General Hodge had issued the statement on February 28, but had changed point (3) to read: “To assist the Koreans in establishing a sound economy essential for an independent, democratic state.” (501.BB Korea/3–248)↩