Matthews files, lot 53 D 413: Telegram
The Commander in Chief Far East (Clark) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff
top secret
operational
immediate
Tokyo, June 21, 1953—9:34
am.
C 63236. The following message from Gen
Taylor is quoted for your information.
“Called on Rhee 1600 hours as you
directed to discuss 2 points affecting ROKA.1 As I reported by phone, Rhee agreed to your position on both points. In course
of conversation following facts developed:
- “A. He is writing you letter expressing regret over your
‘misunderstanding’ that his promise of advance notice of
unilateral action covered the release of non repatriate
Korean prisoners. He says that his letter will include
statement that signing of armistice will automatically free
him for unilateral action. Asked whether this meant
withdrawal of his forces from UNC, he said he hoped it would not come to
that. If he were to withdraw his forces, he indicated that
he had in mind giving a few hours notice in advance. I
stressed point that ROK and
UN Forces are so intermingled that it would take as least 3
months to disengage them in an orderly manner. He
volunteered that if we ever separate he will plan jointly
with us the most painless way of effecting the
separation.
- “B. He referred back to our conversation reported to you
in G 5812, 9 June 53,2 and the 4
points which he had discussed as representing his
requirements for acceptance of armistice. He indicated
surprise that he had never received any reaction from our
side on these points. I
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reminded him that although he had
discussed them with me he indicated that he was not yet
ready to present them as a formal position. He apparently
had forgotten that point and had expected them to be
transmitted, semiofficially at least, for consideration in
Washington. However, he did not want me to do anything
further at this time. I suggested he discuss the matter with
you next time you visit Seoul.
- “C. Rhee has
received petition from non repatriate Chinese on Chejudo
requesting liberation. Signed Taylor.”
