Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Japan; Korea, Volume XVIII

271. Telegram From the Embassy in Korea to the Department of State⁰

Seoul, April 29, 1959, 3 p.m.

567. Within past week President Rhee has twice expressed publicly and in strong terms his impatience with prolonged legislative deadlock. In speaking to group jurists who called at Kyungmudae April 24 President, according to Korean Republic account, described Assembly situation as “disgraceful event” and indicated legislative dispute deserved no further patience on part “people.” In subsequent statement, released OPI April 26, President again referred to people’s impatience and as quoted by independent Korea Times issued warning “If Korean politicians do not return parliament to normal operation, Korean people will use every means insure parliament will fulfill its appropriate function.”

Although LP officially welcomed Presidential statement as “only natural,” both Liberal and opposition leaders puzzled and concerned possible meaning and intent President. Opposition particularly sensitive references “people’s will” which reminiscent President’s justification actions 1952 and 1954 constitutional crises. Such reaction certain be increased by recent activity national society, ostensibly supra-partisan patriotic group organized under Presidential aegis. Following its decision April 27 take action “expedite” proceedings “consultative committee”¹ in light President remarks, eight society representatives, whom Embassy source described as “hoodlums,” called at assembly this morning demanding meet with committee. LP committee spokesman Chong Un-gap met privately with one of delegation but refused agree meeting with full committee.

Although President may have intended remarks simply impress leaders both parties with seriousness continued legislative impasse, Embassy believes statement may be taken by extremist pro-government forces as signal mount “popular” protest campaign directed against opposition. If attempted, such action not only will reduce chances compromise settlement but bring further discredit operation democratic institutions in Korea.

Dowling

0. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 795.00/4–2959. Confidential.
1. On April 1 Liberal and opposition parties agreed to the formation of a ten-man “consultative committee” to undertake formal negotiations to effect a compromise settlement of the legislative deadlock. (Telegram 491 from Seoul, April 3; ibid., 795B.00/4–359) See Supplement.