Allegation Of Press Gang Recruiting Methods

Wanganui Chronicle, 2 September 1950, Page 5

Allegation Of Press Gang Recruiting Methods

TOKIO, Sept 1 (Recd 6 pm).—South Korean Army officers are using Press gang methods to fill gaps, in the ranks of their Army, says a Neuter correspondent with the South Korean Army. In the last few days there have been several recruiting raids in South Korean villages and hundreds of young men have been herded into army trucks. This method of recruiting runs directly counter to a recent statement by the South Korean President, Syngman Rhee, that there was no conscription for the Republic’s Army. Mr. Rhee aded that all men needed by the Armed Forces were volunteering. American army officers attached to South Korean forces are generally aware of the conscription methods used by South Koreans. They argue, however, that most young able-bodied South Koeans have no intention ot volunteering for the army and that conscription is the only way to mobilise manpower.

Several South Korean Government officials denied that there was any conscription, and “certainly no press ganging.”