Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Korea, Volume XV, Part 1

Matthews files, lot 53 D 413: Telegram

The Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Commander in Chief Far East (Clark)

secret
priority

Washington, February 27, 1953—5:17 p.m.

JCS 932503. From JCS.

1. Reur CX 61225.¹ Practical steps that might be taken to forestall large scale move still under consideration. You will be advised of developments.

2. Reur C 61276.² State has urged govts and UN agencies concerned to support United States posn in matter.

3. Reur C 61318.³ In view of Rhee’s apparently strong determination move govt to Seoul, it doubtful that ltr either from Sec State or you would dissuade him from his intended course. View here is mil consideration involved must be presented Rhee in such strong terms that he recognizes that they outweigh his own polit considerations. Believe it more desirable and effective do this orally rather than writing. Accordingly, unless you have strong objection thereto, suggest you meet with Rhee and explain in strongest possible terms mil dangers and disadvantages of moving govt to Seoul and ur concern this regard. You may clearly indicate to him that ur views are view of United States Govt and that you are speaking under instructions. To reinforce ur posit State is asking Amb Briggs be prepared accompany you.

1. Dated Feb. 14, p. 783.
2. In this telegram to the JCS, dated Feb. 19, 1953, Clark requested support from the Department of State in convincing UN agencies and diplomatic missions in Korea to present a “common front” in opposing the move of the ROK Government back to Seoul. (Matthews files, lot 53 D 413)
3. In this telegram to the JCS, dated Feb. 24, 1953, Clark urged that Dulles write to Rhee indicating strong support for UNC opposition to the ROK Government’s move to Seoul. If it was decided that such a letter should not be written by the Secretary, Clark wished to be informed so that he could write to Rhee himself in a similar vein. (Matthews files, lot 53 D 413)