Foreign Relations of the United States, 1950, Korea, Volume VII

795.00/6–2550: Telegram

The Ambassador in Korea (Muccio) to the Secretary of State

confidential
niact

Seoul, June 25, 1950—10 a. m.
[Received June 24—9:26 p. m.]

JUNE 24–25, 1950

(Saturday and Sunday)

925. According Korean army reports which partly confirmed by KMAG field advisor reports, North Korean forces invaded ROK territory at several points this morning. Action was initiated about 4 a. m. Ongjin blasted by North Korean artillery fire. About 6 a. m. North Korean infantry commenced crossing parallel in Ongjin area, Kaesong area, Chunchon area and amphibious landing was reportedly made south of Kangnung on east coast. Kaesong was reportedly captured at 9 a.m., with some 10 North Korean tanks participating in operation. North Korean forces, spearheaded by tanks, reportedly closing in on Chunchon. Details of fighting in Kangnung area unclear, although it seems North Korean forces have cut highway. Am conferring with KMAG advisors and Korean officials this morning re situation.

It would appear from nature of attack and manner in which it was launched that it constitutes all out offensive against ROK.

Repeated information CINCFE.

Muccio

Note: Mr. Connors (FE),¹ Mr. White (SAM)² notified 10:15 p. m. 6/24/50.

Relayed to Army Dept. 10:30 p. m. 6/24/50.

Two copies delivered to White House at 11 p. m. for transmission to President, per Mr. Rusk (cleared with the Secretary).

Repeated to London, Paris, Moscow, Ottawa, Tokyo, Canberra, Manila, Wellington, New Delhi, Djarkarta, and Taipei. Per Mr. Rusk. 11:30 p. m. June 24, CWO/FED.³

1. W. Bradley Connors, Officer in Charge of Public Affairs in the Bureau of Far Eastern Affairs.
2. Paul Lincoln White, Executive Assistant to the Special Assistant to the Secretary of State for Press Relations (McDermott).
3. The initials are those of the Chief Watch Officer in the Department of State, Frank E. Duvall.