795.00/2–1251: Telegram
The Ambassador in Korea ( Muccio ) to the Secretary of State
741. Eyes only Rusk. Re Deptel 652, February 7. Concur whole heartedly we must do all possible avert spreading hostilities. At various times have stressed this with Rhee, Chough1 and, since his return, with Chang. These three key officials appreciate worst thing for Korea would be to have hostilities spread at this time. However, any attempt to reestablish 38th Parallel would bring a violent explosion from all Koreans and we would have greatest difficulty keeping them within bounds and controlling ROK forces.
Present indications point to imminent decisive defeat and well nigh extermination of all Chinese and North Koreans massed in present areas. Military leaders consider that with present UN potential we can annihilate any number of Chinese coming south of Han. If further Chinese forces are not committed we will have in effect a lull soon. If further CCF brought in we shall have to exterminate them before achieving a lull.
I agree it would be preferable to revert to status quo as of June 25 for a period than spread hostilities or lose support of any substantial number of backers of our stand in the UN. However, I strongly urge we refrain from initiating any commitment at this time which would reestablish 38th Parallel. We should not lead from weakness. Chinese Communists are in precarious position now and it would be manifestly desirable for them to make first move toward peaceful settlement. I feel best possible aim would be to allow forces to move to best defensive terrain somewhere between Seoul and Pyongyang keeping enemy supply lines as extended as possible. It should be possible to hold such a line with a considerably reduced UN force. I recommend program for strengthening ROK forces be undertaken at once. ROK’s have abundant manpower and would soon be in position to hold such a line and replace a good portion of UN ground forces now here.
World developments may force US into tentative solution expressed in your message but from here I feel we could afford a more positive approach towards Korean unity and independence. We should take into account that Chinese now realize how determined we are and Far East will soon know decisive blow Chinese Communists are suffering. This favorable development should be most beneficial in any discussions regarding a solution in Korea as well as in other matters of contention in Far East and even in Europe.
- Chough Pyung Ok, Minister of Home Affairs, Republic of Korea.↩