740.00119 Control (Korea)/5–1249: Telegram
The Ambassador in Korea (Muccio) to the Secretary of State
529. I called on President Rhee afternoon 11th and, after handing him letter1 with list military equipment and supplies transferred ROK on April 30, conveyed to him orally substance first substantive paragraph Deptel 328, May 9. I also referred in general way to worldwide demand for US military aid, pointing out Korean requests in this respect would have to be considered in light that factor.
2. On whole Rhee received my representations with good grace. Briefly his comment was to following effect: At present time he confronted with trying situation. Apparently referring his statement on US troop withdrawal, he said he had not realized how concerned public reaction would be, how apprehensive Korean people were. He then referred to Communist infiltration activities and went on to say it his impression US policy one of peace and not firmly consistent in all parts world. All these factors, he said, made it difficult for him to implant feeling of peace and security in Korean people. He then said [Page 1022] it perhaps mistake try force hand US Government adding, however, he did not think it wrong make Korean position clear to American people. That, he said, was all he had in mind in issuing his statement. He then said US had given various assurances of aid to ROK, but he had hoped some further public assurance of aid could come from Washington. He repeated over and over his problem how keep Korean people assured. In summing up he requested US Government “be liberal” to ROK.
3. I reviewed aid already extended ROK, pointed out military and economic aid continuing at this time and invited his attention fact question further aid now before Executive and Legislative branches US Government. I stressed fact departure US combat team indicated no withdrawal US aid and no lessening interests in maintenance independence and integrity ROK. Lastly, I invited Rhee review statement issued Washington, January 12 and pointed out further statement reestablishment KMAG expected soon.