123 Muccio, John J.: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Korea
278. For Muccio. Info reaching Dept, both from Mission’s reports and from conversations with Bunce, Heer, etc, leads Dept believe critical nature problems created by apparent inability or unwillingness ROK recognize and deal effectively with inflation threat, and by apparently [Page 36] increasing anti-democratic tendencies ROK, wld justify your return to Dept for brief consultation. It has also occurred to Dept and ECA that useful purpose might be served were you to issue brief statement prior your departure Seoul to effect your recall for consultation due your Govt’s concern over inflationary situation.
Request your views as to usefulness and optimum timing such consultation, as well as advisability issuance statement along suggested lines.