795.00/12–2150: Telegram
The Ambassador in Korea (Muccio) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 21—12:03 p. m.]
595. Re Embtel 589 December 19 [20]. Although President had ordered suspension executions pending discovery appropriate means and place, and establishment method review as well as general amnesty, seemingly only civil side government has taken action comply. Justice Ministry issued necessary orders, is preparing an amnesty decree for issuance tomorrow which is reported will involve release about half those now in prison under charges violation Emergency Law No. 1, while reprieving most of those awaiting death sentences. Justice Minister has prepared public statement regarding law, trials and executions, which was expected have good effect, and to be issued today.
Yesterday afternoon ROK Army JAG office attempted conduct execution undetermined number persons convicted, sentenced by court-martial in same general area of encampment UK 29th Brigade where other executions had resulted in adverse publicity. Before British officers could obtain interpreter and interfere, 17 persons had been killed, according British report, “brutal” and “criminal” fashion, although facts supporting this conclusion not stated. Presumably refers to shooting in groups through back of head over open grave. British officers then stopped executions, examined warrant of execution, bearing appropriate seal of Chief of Staff and took name of JAG Major present. Execution party including undetermined number prisoners then returned Seoul.
Commanding Officer UK 29th Brigade has issued order prohibiting further executions this area, British troops will stop them and will [Page 1587] bring responsible person before him “by force if necessary to be dealt with”. He informed British Chargé “I am less interested in the type of justice than in the effect on my troops”.
Facts have been communicated informally to President, who is understood now issuing sharp orders to Defense Ministry for appropriate action.
Repeated info Tokyo unnumbered.