501.BB Korea/8–1048: Telegram
The Political Adviser in Korea (Jacobs) to the Secretary of State
priority
644. Cite Zpol 1231. Reference PolAd’s 635, August 9, there is quoted below text of General Hodge’s reply (Tab “B”) to President Rhee’s letter of August 9 (Tab “4” [“A”]) which is being sent Rhee tomorrow morning August 11 under that date. General Hodge will send copy to chairman of UNTCOK but text note not being released to press.
“I have the honor to acknowledge Your Excellency’s note of August 9, 1948 in which you informed me of the fact that, in accordance with the United Nations General Assembly Resolution II of November 14, 1947, the United Nations Temporary Commission on Korea was notified on August 6, 1948 of the formation of the Govt of the Republic of Korea, and in which you requested my cooperation and assistance in transferring to that govt the functions of govt now exercised by me as Commanding General of the United States Army Forces in Korea.
I am pleased to note that the Govt of the Republic of Korea recognizes that it will be necessary for me to retain control over areas and facilities of vital importance (such as ports, camps, railways, lines of communication, airfields, et cetera) as I deem necessary in order to accomplish the transfer of authority to the Govt of the Republic of Korea and the withdrawal of United States occupation forces from Korea in accordance with the United Nations General Assembly resolutions on Korea. Furthermore, I note that the Govt of the Republic of Korea recognizes my exclusive jurisdiction over the personnel of my command, both military and civilian, including their dependents.
I shall be pleased to cooperate with you in arranging a progressive and orderly transfer of governmental functions, including the assumption of responsibilities for the direction of all police, coast guard and constabularly units now in being, leading to the withdrawal of United States forces from Korea and the termination of the United States occupation. To this end, and for the purpose of facilitating arrangements for the withdrawal of the forces under my command, I have appointed Major General Charles G. Helmick and Mr. Everett F. Drumright1 to consult with Your Excellency’s representatives Mr. Lee Bum Suk, Mr. Yun Tchi Young and Mr. Thomas S. Chang.2
Accept, sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.”
- Counselor who arrived at Seoul from Tokyo on July 20.↩
- Foreign Minister Chang Taik Sang. In telegram 664, August 14, from Seoul, the Department was informed of the appointment of Dr. Chough Pyung Ok as President Rhee’s special representative to the United States, with personal rank of ambassador. (501.BB Korea/8–1448)↩