Office of the Historian

320/11–550: Telegram

The United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin) to the Secretary of State

secret
priority
New York, November 5, 1950—1:22 p. m.
[Received November 5—1:53 p. m.]

Delga 236. For Johnson, NA. Following is draft of statement of principles IC on Korea will consider Monday, November 6, 10:00 a. m. This is revision of original text made as result consultation between Plimsoll representing IC and Allison. Plimsoll believes it will gain general approval but neither he nor Allison made any commitments as to its acceptability. Department’s comments urgently requested:

“In order that there may be no misunderstanding the IC desires to clarify some points in its resolution of 12th October 1950.

“The IC on Korea wishes to ensure that the people of the northern part of Korea shall have the opportunity to participate fully and freely in the establishment of a unified and democratic government of Korea. It therefore advised the Unified Command on 12th October to exercise administrative functions in the north until the commission has considered means of consulting the Korean people and their representatives.

“The IC on Korea considers that, subject to the needs of military operations and security, the following principles should govern any use in the north of Koreans from south of the 38th parallel in order to conform with the resolution of the committee adopted on 12th October 1950.

  • “1. Any Koreans south of the 38th parallel who are used in the north should be appointed by, under the control of and responsible to the UC and not act as the representatives or agents of any other authority;
  • “2. Such Koreans should not be used in a manner which would enable them to bring political pressure to bear upon the local inhabitants [Page 1046] or in any manner restrict the free expression of political opinions by the local inhabitants;
  • “3. Efforts should be made to use local residents wherever possible before using Koreans from south of the 38th parallel.

“These principles will be reviewed by the UN Commission for the Unification and Rehabilitation of Korea after it meets.”

Austin