S6: KMAG

It appears that the Korean Military Advisory Group (KMAG) role was unclear by both military and political leaders.  As Doyle addresses the United States, “was determined to show the world that its intentions in Korea were nonaggressive” by placing it under the State Department.  However, the lead figure of the KMAG was not a civilian, but BG Roberts in 1950.  Even with a military figurehead, the sense of urgency to train Koreans was non-existence.  This is seen when Koreans would ask their American counterparts about weapons and their reply was, “you can’t fight city hall.”  Additionally, the Americans assessment of the Korean Army was highly overrated.  BG Roberts telling Time Magazine that, “The South Koreans have the best damn army outside the United States!” could only be laughed at.  He would tell Time in that same article that the Korean troops were “excellent.”  This unrealistic assessment of the ROKA might be due to the belief by American military and political leadership that a Korean War was not likely in the near future.  This led to KMAGs disaster once war broke out on 25 June 1950.  After the first contact, there were still many questions on the role of the KMAG.  Should they continue their advisory role? Should they withdraw?  Fight alongside the ROKA?  Such as Zenger says, there was not a distinction of duties for the preparation for an actual conflict with the NKPA.

Now looking at the Korean-American relationship today we can see some similarities and differences.  Similarities between the two eras are the belief that Korean War is not imminent.  I do believe that 2ID is doing everything they can to be ready to “fight tonight.”   However, the priority of where the money goes does not build confidence of a “fight tonight” mentality.  We still have old communication devices, waiting on funds for transmissions (A66), and I’m still waiting on my ASIP batteries to come in.

The differences between the two eras are noticeable though.   There is a distinct role that the American military plays in the ROK.  While not as pessimistic as Doyle, I believe we are in a supportive/assistance role with the ROKA.  I do believe that the ROKA is more prepared for a Korean War now than they were in 1950 and would be able to defend against an initial NKPA attack.  If there is to be an attack, there is a clear distinction of responsibilities between ROKA and American forces.  As stated in the CWMD SOP the “ISTF will report to their HQ unit which communicates with the HCC and 8th Army.”  Unlike the KMAG in the 1950’s, the ROKA and American relationship are more indoctrinated and their roles are more distinct.

See URL for my comic reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8FNVsbnwWE