Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XIX, Part 1, Korea, 1969–1972

120. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Korea¹

Washington, December 14, 1971, 1446Z.

224446. For Ambassador. Ref: Seoul 7507;² Seoul 7508.³

1. Ambassador Kim Dong Jo came in for brief meeting afternoon December 13 with Under Secretary Johnson at latter’s request. After allowing Kim to read copy of Nixon–Park letter, Under Secretary explained Ambassador Habib had already delivered letter to President Park same day, and had informed him that summit meeting at this time was not feasible.

2. Referring also to Kim Yong Sik’s discussion with Habib, Johnson regretted possibility of misunderstanding by Kim Dong Jo about subsequent meeting, but made clear we are unable at present time to commit ourselves to a summit meeting with Korea at any date. We intend to keep request in mind; for the present President Nixon’s letter, however, says about as much as could possibly be said in terms of assurances to Korea. Kim offered only a token remonstration and subsequently indicated he fully understood U.S. position.

3. Under Secretary also raised subject of North Korean threat and emergency declaration. Saying he felt Kim already knew his views, Johnson believed it important to repeat that, while Korean internal affairs are ROKG business, repercussions of emergency declaration could shake confidence of Americans in Korea. Noting we have had inquiries from business, public and the Hill, Under Secretary hoped President Park was not moving in the direction of curtailing National Assembly. Korea has many friends in our Congress, including Speaker Albert, said Johnson, and Korea knows how important to her welfare is support from our Congress. Kim Dong Jo was curious as to whether Habib had been persuaded by President Park’s explanation. From nature of questions Habib had raised, Under Secretary thought not.

Irwin

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL 15–1 KOR S. Secret; Priority; Nodis. Drafted by Ranard on December 13, cleared by Brown and Miller (S/S), and approved by Irwin.
2. Document 119.
3. In telegram 7508 from Seoul, December 13, the Embassy reported confusion in the Korean Government caused by an erroneous report from Ambassador Kim Dong Jo in Washington as to the possibility of a Nixon–Park summit meeting in between Nixon’s Beijing and Moscow summits. (National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL 15–1 KOR S)