Ambassador Muccio reports to US State Department
that North Korea has crossed the 38th Parallel.
Note: Seven hours after the North Korean Army invaded, US Ambassador to Korea
Mucchio cabled the State Department with these sketchy details. Approximately 30 minutes before
the State Department received this cable, United Press correspondent Jack James had wired New
York with an urgent news flash. The State Department was totally unaware
of the situation in Korea at that time.
SEOUL, June 25, 1950
According to Korean Army reports which are partly confirmed by Korean Military Advisory Group field
adviser reports, North Korean Forces invaded Republic of Korea territory at several points
this morning. Action was initiated about 4 AM. Ongjin was blasted by North Korean artillery fire.
About 6 AM North Korean infantry commenced crossing the (38th) parallel in the Ongjin area, Kaesong
area, and Chunchon area, and an amphibious landing reportedly was made south of Kangnung on the
east coast. Kaesong was reportedly captured at 9 AM with some ten North Korean tanks participating
in the operation. North Korean forces, spearheaded by tanks, are reportedly closing in on Chunchon.
Details of the fighting in the Kangnung area are unclear, although it seems that North Korean forces
have cut the highway. I am conferring with Korean Military Advisory Group advisers and Korean
officials this morning concerning the situation.
It would appear from the nature of the attack and the manner in which it was launched that it
constitutes an all-out offensive against the Republic of Korea.