795.00/7–2650: Circular telegram
The Secretary of State to Certain Diplomatic and Consular Offices 1
Reporting 2 NK divisions tentatively identified pushing E from SW Korea in direction Pusan, 3 or 4 NK divisions pressing against elements 2 US divisions in central front Yongdong (50 miles NWW of Taegu), and 3 fresh NK divisions, including veteran First Division, pushing ROK forces back near Hamchang (50 miles NNW of Taegu), Tokyo Hdqrs states NK engaged in classical double envelopment on theatre basis with 2 or possibly 3 corps of 3 or 4 divisions each. Tokyo Hdqrs reports that unless center line can be held against envelopment, forward elements must be retracted toward more continuous perimeter for final defense Pusan. Continuous advance NK forces regardless heavy losses and setbacks caused by US air attack indicates NK war footing and armament had been underestimated.
- Sent to 40 diplomatic and consular offices.↩