740.00119 Control (Korea)/12–3048: Telegram
The Special Representative in Korea (Muccio) to the Secretary of State
328. President Rhee issued following press release 29th in connection reports circulating Seoul to effect 7th Division transferred Japan and US Government contemplating early de jure recognition Government Republic of Korea:1
“My understanding was that a portion of the 7th Division was sent to Japan, leaving the remaining forces, together with the 24th Corps and other divisions, to help maintain security until Korea has formed a sufficient force for national defense. This is in accordance with the UN program for Korea, as I understand.
In addition to these forces, a Naval and Military Mission has been establishd in Korea in order to help train and equip the Korean National Army which is now in process of formation in addition to the constabulary.
We feel that our security is sufficiently safeguarded, and I believe that within a comparatively short time our national defense force will no longer need the presence of a large security force.
Regarding the separate recognition of the Republic of Korea by the United States of America soon after New Year’s Day, with Ambassador Muccio as the permanent Ambassador to Seoul, is very welcome and highly gratifying. Although we have been expecting this, I am happy to say that the relationship which exists has been exceedingly cordial, as it should be, and we deeply appreciate the cooperation and friendship accorded us by Ambassador Muccio and General Coulter.
[Page 1345]The Korean people will be happy to see their old friends General Dean and General [Helmick?], who have proved to be very sincere and honest friends of Korea, remain.
Let us remind you once again of the fact that in 1882 the United States led Korea out of its isolation into the family of nations, and once again it is the United Nations. Our people will remember it with a grateful heart for generations to come. We hope this relationship will prove beneficial to both nations.”
- For President Truman’s statement on recognition issued from the White House on January 1, 1949, see Department of State Bulletin, January 9, 1949, p. 59. The text was sent in telegram 206, December 30, 7 p. m., to Seoul, for release on January 1.↩