740.00119 Control (Korea)/8–2448: Telegram
The Political Adviser in Korea (Jacobs) to the Secretary of State
707. Cite Zpol 9643. Pass IBD NY. Reference Seoul PolAd number 705, August 24.1
Following is text of Rhee-Hodge press release on signing of interim military agreement August 24:
“The negotiations of the first of several agreements for the transfer of authority from the United States authorities to the Government of the Republic of Korea has been completed in an atmosphere of mutual understanding. This agreement, regarding security forces, was signed today. Doctor Syngman Rhee, President of the Republic of Korea, and by constitution, Commander-in-Chief of Korean Armed Forces, and Lieutenant General John R. Hodge, Commanding General, United States Army Forces in Korea, were the signatories.
This is an interim agreement and provides for the progressive turning over to the Korean Government of jurisdiction over and command of all Korean security forces (police, constabulary and coast guard) as rapidly as is possible, consistent with the common security of the Republic of Korea and the United States Army Forces in Korea. During the period of the agreement the United States Army will continue [Page 1288] to assist the Korean Government in the training and equipment of the constabulary and coast guard. It also provides for the use of those areas and facilities essential for the maintenance of the United States troops until the withdrawal from Korea is completed as visualized in paragraph four of resolution II of the United Nations General Assembly, 14 November, 1947.
The agreement is effective only until the United States troops have withdrawn from Korea.”2