Office of the Historian

296. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Korea0

Washington, April 12, 1960, 7:47 p.m.

816. Seoul’s 841, rptd info CINCPAC 131.1 Department views with concern resurgence demonstrations and acts of violence Masan particularly since they indicate highly volatile situation which, as Embassy notes, very well might spread. Appears to Department that, although originally student inspired, these acts in which general populace have now joined may be symptomatic of more basic problem, namely emergence long standing and deep seated resentment against LP and Administration which now accentuated in view recent developments and [Page 616] which reflects disillusionment general political scene and sense of frustration over inability effect change through normal democratic channels.

ROKG’s flagrant disregard popular opinion in course presidential elections appears to have rent apathy characterizing attitude Korean populace toward Government recent years and to have set in motion forces which appear likely to gain momentum and which apparently prepared resort active means oppose present Korean Administration if situation not properly and quickly dealt with. Serious nature situation underscores utmost importance ROKG taking positive steps now designed reverse unfavorable domestic trends ROK and to offset to extent this may be possible the unfavorable reaction to manner in which presidential elections conducted. We would hope ROKG would not seek avoid taking constructive forthright steps urgently required deal with this situation by characterizing popular dissatisfaction registered over electoral abuses as “Communist-inspired” and to be dealt with accordingly. In referring Masan riots, Ambassador Yang told Assistant Secretary Parsons this morning that he had been informed by his Government that these were clearly Communist inspired.

Appreciate Embassy’s comments re approach we might make ROKG this regard.

Herter
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 795B.00/4–1260. Confidential; Priority. Drafted by Lane and Bane, and cleared by Steeves and Parsons. Repeated to CINCPAC.↩
  2. Document 295.↩