US/PRISONERS OF WAR CAMPS AND CONDITIONS

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP80S01540R001200160002-5
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: S
• Document Page Count: 21
• Document Creation Date: December 22, 2016
• Document Release Date: June 14, 2012
• Sequence Number: 2
• Publication Date: May 13, 1953
• Content Type: REPORT

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CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
? INFORMATION REPORT
*CM
SECURITY INFORMATION
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by law. The reproduction of this form is prohibited.
50X1-HUM
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SECRET
Security Information
UN PRISONMS OF WAR
CAMPS AND CONDITIONS
IN
KOREA, MANCHURIA
AND CHINA
SUPPLaIZT VII
1 May 1953
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TABLE OF CONTEITTS
INTRODUCTORY CON/EI7TS
POW CAMPS AND CONDITIONS
KOREA
2
2
Acknowledged Camps
2
Unacknowledged Camps
8
New Listings
8
Old Listings, New Gonfirmations
10
MANCHURIA AND CHINA
Old Listings, Nal' Confirmations
12
SUPEARY CHART
13
TRENDS A2D ILISCELLANEOUS CONNENTS (OPINION)
14
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1, The purportedly wounded and sick POWs exchanged last month were
collected in three camps, Chon-Ma, #7 (by 1 Dec/52 CCRAK camp numbering);
Pyoktong, 15; and Hanpojin. All three camps lie along the Yalu River, on the
Manchurian border. The existence of Manpojin, northernmost of the three,
had not previously been acknowledged by the Communists, but had been carried
on our maps until 20 Jan/53, when it was considered abolished as there had
been no report on it since 15 Apr/52. Why the Communists should suddenly, and
in this fashion, admit that there was a collection camp at Manpojin is a
mystery. The coordinates for Manpojin are BA 7259; the nearest listed camp
is at Kuup-tong (V-4), at BA 4930, too great a distance away to be part of the
same camp.
2. A number of single reports, all unconfirmed and all some months old,
have come in on new camp locations at:
Changan-sa
Chinnapo
Chuk-chon
Hoeyang
Kobang-san
Coal Mine
(Pyongyang)
Musong-ni
Nae-dong
Pack'un-jang
Pongnae-do
Sanghung-dong
Sanum-dong
DT 1974
YC 0988
CU 5408
CT 7884
ID 4715
YC 1198
CU 3589
CU 6499
YD 3518
YD 3725
YD 3433
Sosonz-dong YD 2151
Sokkal CT 0143
Sonam BT 5115
Songhwa XC 8549
Songnae-dong XE 5644
Song-ni CU 3589
Tangsong-ri YD 3123
Tonso-dong Area YD 4222
Umchon-dong BT 6049
Yongdae-ri BU 5722
YuImong-ri YC 4078
Yusong EV 5295
Yongbong-ri YD 3582
The majority of these reports indicated that the enclosures were small,
possibly transient, and the majority of POWs were South Koreans. Details will
not be included in this or future reports, unless further confirmation is
forthcoming.
3. Since there have been no reports on the following camps since
1 Sept/52, they will be considered abolished for purposes of this report:
Chasong
Haeryang-ni
Hungdong-ni
Hwangju
Hwapung-ni
Kyongchang-ri
Mayul-ri
Myohysng-san
KO:UAW CAIIPS
CA 0392
CU 4713
BT 9794
rC 4138
CT 1075
YD 3721
BT 6247 Oossibly
BT 653212ame camp
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Namchon-up BT 7346
Pongung CV 7714
Sangaenggun YC 0579
Sego-ri IC 0438
Sinyang IC 4059
Taesu-r! YD 5516
Um-dong BU 5035
Yanggu DT 1171
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MKOCHURIA-CHINA
Antung 124-18, 40-38
Chekiang Prov.
Chungchun 125-20, 40-53
Harbin
Kiaryun Shien
Pench'i
124-10, 42-50
124-05, 42-36
123-43, 41-02 50X1-HUM
I. KOREAN PU CAPTS
A. Acknowledged Camps (arranged by camp number) (Only those camps about which
there has been additional information since the 20 Jan/53 report will be
listed.)
1. Imsan-ni (XE 8779): Camp a is 10 mi. ENE of Sakchu (Paengyong).
(Comment: Sakchu was removed from listing as not having been heard from
since Aug/51, but may now prove to be part of a complex.)
2. (Branch 2) Chanson: In Sept/52 a camp with approximately 1,250 UN POWs
housed in six large barracks (70 x 5 x 3 m) was at XE 8779, SW of Chang-ni
(XE 8780). Only US POWs were seen in compound. Barracks had earth walls
and cement roofs. POWs lived four to a room. Fed mostly bread, seemed
undernourished. Some of Pais wore old uniforms, other blue fatigues.
Camp was garrisoned by 150 CC X (Diagram of camp attached to cited report.)
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5. Pyoktong (huksa-ri, YE 0699)- FBIS, Pyongyang, 4 Mar/53 broadcasts
stated Enoch and Quinn were in Camp '6.
One convoy of exchanged POWs collected at, or were already interned in
Pyoktong, which has long been known as "The University" for indoctrination.
Chon.ca (XE 6448): One convoy of exchanged POWs collected at this camp.
Yonzsan-ni (XE 5644): Unconfirmed report states thxe are 200 ROK
POWS in this camp. Possibly Camp #7, Branch 1.
8. Aada (YD 2887)
(a) In Sept/52 source was sent
400 ROK in vicinity being
strapped to each POWs back
ROK POWs located lt km. SW
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to Anju to transport supplies. Observed
compelled to repair roads. Wooden boxes
to hamper escape. Source heard camp for
of Anju.
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(b) As of Sept/52, there were five independent enclosures in Camp #8 in
and around a former primary school, approximately 300 a. W of
TaetIaryong-ni gate (YD 3524). 1,000 ROK POWs slated to serve in
YKA, but returned to POI status after peace talks began. POWs worked
four hours a day, took three hours indoctrination per week. Host
POWs didn't accept Communism, many planned escape and sang ROK songs
while marching. POWs fed 600 gr. rice, kaoliang, soy oil a day;
undernourished and diseased. Worc blue coveralls. PO-RO in red on
camp roofs. Camp guarded with four light machine guns, posted at
10 in. intervals, during the night.
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(c) Yongse-ri (YD 2688, vic. Anju) Unconfirmed report of 600 ROK POWs
at this location.
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9. Chaedong-ni (Singchang-ni) (BU 6073)
(a) As of Sept/52, there was a camp with 2,000 POWS at the foot of a hill
near Singchlang (BU 5265), established in June/52. Camp was
500 x 300 in., fenced with barbed wire. POWs worked six hours a day,
given two hours indoctrination a day, screened once a month for
potential agents to be used against the South Koreans.
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(b) In Apr/52, source was in vicinity of Songhyon-ni (HU 5165; heard that
thirty ROK Pais had escaped from nearby camp. June/52, in same
vicinity, source saw a number of POWS getting firewood on hill.
POWs in groups of three, guarded by two NKA. In Oct/52, source heard
that the Political Commissar had told men they "must capture more
prisoners", and to "treat them well".
10. Sunan (YD 3241)
(a). As of Sept/52, there was a camp with 3,000 ROK POWs in sixteen
dugout shelters at the foot of a hill E of Sunan. Camp had been
established in early July/52. Camp was 24 km. around, fenced with
barbed wire. POtTs worked six hours a day, given two hours
indoctrination. Screened twice a month for potential agents vs.
South Korea.
(Comment: According to SO 99143, a camp with 1,000 ROK POWs was at
the site of the former Sunan High School, next to cemetery 1 km. NE
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of Sunan RR Station. This camp had been moved to Sunan from Kirim-ni
20 July/52 because of UN bombings. Field comment in this report
states Camp ;,,A3 at Sunan was listed by the Communists 12 July/52.)
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11. Pyongyang Complex
(a) Huan-dong (YD 4333) As of 30 Nov/52, 24 USAF pilots were interned
in Huan-dong. Camp in building 20 x 6 x 4 m. Guard posted in four
phases of building. 50 persennel in charge of camp ops. POW schedule:
up at 7; breakfast at 8, indoctrination 9:30-12; lunch 12:30; free
from 7-8; supper 8:30, recreation 10; bed 10:30. Fed 600 gr. rice,
vegetables, soy oil per day; weak, yellow complectioned from diet,.
No medical equipment in camp. Billets DDT sprayed once a week. POWs
wore one-piece fatigues and USAF pilot jackets. Pais refused to
listen to lectures, were homesick. Building surrounded by barbed
wire, guarded by one squad of soldiers. Camp was moved here July/52
from Pyongyang area.
(Comment: Directorate had one previous report of camp with 20 UN
pilots at YD 4136 (cCRAK liF-1589, 12 Ju1y/5gi.)
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(b) Kirim-ni (YD 3823):
(1) As of Oct/52, 2,000 ROK POWs were interned at YD 3832, probably
Kirim-ni camp.
(2)
(3)
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As of 21 Sept/52, 1,500 ROK POWs were in a red brick, 2-story
school building at YD 3824 in Kirim. POWs worked in groups of
25 repairing bomb damage. Daily ration of 700 gr. of corn or
rice with salt and seaweed.
(Comment: Probably same camp as Sinsong-dong fsee p. 7, item(e)7,
Hasokhwa-ri jpee p. 6, item (b/7.)
As of 13 Sept/52, the NK bureau supervising POW camps in NK HQs
in semi-underground houses 10 x 3 x 2 m. at YD 3824 on NJ edge
of Moran-bong in Kirimani. POis were brought here immediately
after capture, sent to Kangdong after interrogation, and thence
to other camps in North Korea.
(Field Comment: SO 103362 fsee P. 6, item (a/7 states there
was an interrogation camp at YD 4234.)
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Mirim-ni (YD 4622) Branch 2: AS of Sept/52, a camp with 2,000 ROK
POWs was located in one wooden building and two one-story concrete
buildings at YD 5524, approximately 8,500 m. E of Mirim-ni. POWs
had worked at Mirim airfield from Apr/51 to Apr/52, when construction
work stopped because of UN raid. Camp was operated by a company of
NKA. POWs given daily three hour indoctrination. Allowed to walk
within 200 m. radius of camp in groups of two or three with consent
of guards.
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(d) Namero-dong (YD 3526): As of Sept/52, source saw pal camp for ROKs
in vicinity YD 3522. Source heard from another soldier that there
were 1,000 ROK POWs in the camp. Camp administered by Pyongyang
Security Regt. Located at former Parim People's School. PO-RO
characters on roof of building.
(e) Yamsa-ri (ID 4725): 12 US POWs reported at these coordinates.
7-5;732 photos neither confirm nor disprove.
(f)
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Plronvane Area:
(1) CCRAK CR 4140, 20 Aug/52 reported 500 ROK (NK anti-Communists)
POWs at YD 3822 in five personnel shelters. 8 Nov/52 photos
neither confirm nor disprove.
(2) As of late Sept/52, 50 UN POWs (30 aoK, 20 US) seen in
Pyongyang. Appeared haggard and dirty, but clothes in fair
condition. POWs being marched north.
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(3) Source saw 50 ROK POWS escorted to gate of Pyongyang camp for
lunch by one-star NK officer and four NCOs. Pais in blue
overalls. Source didn't know number of POWS in camp.
(g) Sosong-ni (fl) 3622) Branch 1: Camp at YD 364214 photographed
8 Nov/52, 1,000 ROK :OWs had been reported here. Camp probably
Branch 1, Camp 411 as reported by Communists. Photos neither
confirmed nor disproved.
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(h) Yongsong (YD 4033): As of Dec/52, a POW camp for USAF was located on
a wooded hill in Yongsong-ni area (YD 4233) with 26 Caucasian, 8 Negro
POWs. Camp approximately 100 m. in circumference, erllosed with barbed
wire, guarded by platoon of NKA. POWs treated better than infantrY
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P0 is, no forced labor. Camp often visited by Soviet AF advisors.
(1)
Wasan-ni (YD 3928): This camp possibly closed in July-Aug/52 POI
camp re-shuffle. CCRAK F-1979, 15 July/52 stated 20-50 UK PONS this
location and numerous reports from March to mid-July/52 tend to con-
firm each other as to camp's existence during that period.
The following are new camp listings in the Pyongyang area:
(a) Hach'u-dong (YD 4234), Interrogation camp: As of Aug-Sept/53, UN and
ROK PO:!s were interrogated in buildings of a former brick factory in
this location. Camp attached to NKA General HQ, established in Mar/51.
POWs from all parts of front interrogated here prior to assignment
to other camps. 15 Aug/52 there were 150 ROK and 30 other v. POWs
here. Number of POWs varied because of large turn-over, but averaged
150. Other UK POs separated from ROKs and interrogated in English.
dhen more POWs were to be interrogated than camp could accomodate,
the excess was sent to other camps and English-speaking interrogators
sent with them. Daily rice ration of 700 gr. with supplemental rations
of vegetable soup and mackerel. ROK POWs had bread as main food
(probably in lieu of rice.) All POWs wore blue fatigues and received
regulation NI issue of beds and everyday articles. PC:ids did light
work in camp area. Lt. Col. II (fnu) was commanding officer, aged
38, graduate of English Literature at Nippon University, member
SK Labor Party prior to war. 50X1-HUM
(b) Hasokhwa-ri (YD 2538): As of 30 Sept/52, there was a camp holding
2,000 ROK POWs in 12 dug-out shelters near Hasokhwa-ri. Camp
established Aug/52. Area 11 km. circumference, fenced with barbed
wire. POWs worked on nearby farms'8 hours a day, given 2 hours
indoctrination daily. Screened three times monthly for potential
agents to be used vs. South Koreans.
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PYongsanit Prison Area (YD 3721): 800 ?.OK P073 reported in this
location in Pyongyang. Prison and schools in area had been virtually
demolished but possible POWs were still in area. (Photos made
8 Nov/52.)
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(d) Sijong-mvon (YD 4933), probably interrogation camp: Source observed
60 US POWs being taken to Sijong-myong office by NKA officer from NKA
CI.Q. Source said POWs lived in a number of civilian homes in area.
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(e) Sinsong=42ag (ID 2151): As of 30 Sept/52, a camp containing 3,700
ROK POWs was in 18 dug-out shelters at the foot of a hill this
location. Camp 2 km. diameter and fenced with barbed wire. POWs
worked 8 hours a day, riven 2 hours indoctrination daily. Screened
? twice a month for potential agents to be used vs. South Koreans.
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12. Chlahwangchlon (YD 3538)
(a) CCRAK A-208 places SoYang-ni (Hung-ni) at YD 3734, holding 2,500 FMK
POWs. This may incorrect reference to camp 412, but the number of
POWs is excessive if se.
(b) Camp 412 is headquarters for the "American-British POW Organization
for Peace", which puts out a newspaper there. Ambrose Nugent is a
POW in #12.
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21. Chail-li (YD 2649), Indoctrination Camp. POW camp for AF personnel at
YD 2649. POWs undernourished, averaged 3-4 in sick bay, treated by
doctors from nearby CtiCom ambulance unit. Innoculations given by three
male nurses from unit; (POWs told innoculations necessary to protect
from germ warfare, but caused fever and POWs suspicious of them.)
Recreation: volleyball and swimming at irregular times -- games short
and few who played didn't overdo. Compulsory indoctrination in camp.
2-3 POWs eager to learn but majority not interested. POWs represented by
a leader. Those who tried to escape lost meal privileges and forced to
write self-criticism. If escape successful, POW leader to be punished,
but beatings now allowed. Roll call in camp. Guards regular NKA, treated
POWs well, made regular rounds of camp at night. (Sketch of camp layout
attached to cited report.)
(Comment: Prior to June/52, a camp housing US Pais was in five large
buildings at YD 267497 near Chail-li--almost certainly same as above.
First building at YD 272497, second at YD 265487, third at YD 273477,
fourth at YD 300503, fifth at YD 296508. In June/52? 120 POWs moved to
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Kangdong camp (BU 4837.) /710 96821 stated there were 80 CAncasian POWS
(believed US) and 150 ROKs in Kangdong as of late June/523/ 8 Oct/52
56 NKA Evacuation Hgppital was in houses vacated by POWS. One company
of troops at YD 374505, another 600 in. N of Chail-li, another 2 mi. S of
HQ at YD 374505.)
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22. Tari-col (Pukchin (YE 3732-3454)
(a) A POW camp with 1,600 ROK and 400 other UN POWS located in two school
buildings at YD 3353, 1.1 of Pukchin. ROK POWs in larger building
(2-story brick, 80 x 90 x 12 m.) UN POWs in smaller building. (flat
cemeht 25 x 20 x 8 m.) Daily ration of 600 gr. rice, 200 gr. sorghum
often cut because of shortages. Pars wore NK uniforms, cloth shoes.
Some worked transporting machine parts to Unsan gold mine (YE 3253),
others worked in mine in two shifts of 12 hours each.
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(b) As of 13 Sept/52, there was a POW camp containing 1,500 ACK and 600
US in caves formerly occupied by the Unsan gold mine at YE 3732, E
of Maebong-dong (YE 3823). POgs given daily ration of 700 gr. of
food (70% grain.) Maw POs were ill, wore ragged dirty NKA uniforms.
US POqs rarely seen. ROK POWs made NKA uniforms on sewing machines
and did other machine and tool work. Compulsory indoctrination three
hours a week, plus periodic debate and criticism sessions, and
occasional rallies denouncing SK and US governments. Camp had 120
guards armed with four light machine guns.
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MAnDoJin (BA 7259): Camp never listed by the Communists; last information
re its existence over a year old. One convoy of exchanged POWs nevertheless
collected at this camp.
B. Unacknowledged Camps
1. New Listings
(a) EazIkal CO 3189): 400 i:ZOK ex-POWs in NKA "Liberation Unit" this
location (unconfirmed).
(b) Kowon-gun (CU 5266): In June/52, 200 ROK, 30 Caucasian, 7 Negro
P046 transferred by truck from South Hamgyong Province penitentiary
to Kowon-gun where they were to repair damaged railroads. POWs
chained together in groups of five. While traveling through Kungjon-ni
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district of Hamhung City (CV 7517), 5 US, 7 ROK POWs and 2 of 20 NK
guards were killed in UN air raid. Guards said that POdS would be
transferred to MUsan area (EB 1875) to avoid future raids.
(Comment: Camp probably no longer in existence.)
(c)
Kuna.-donK
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POWs this location.
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(IC 4268): Unconfirmed report of 600 ROK
(d)
Naedonc!..-ni
(YD 1273): As of 22 Nov/52, camp housing
approximately
500 ROK POWs
located in civilian houses. Camp established
late
July/52.
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(e)
Oksan-.don
a Gold lane (YD 3975): 1,000 ROK POtIs
reported confined
this location. One report states old Camp 0 (Taesong-ni)
might have
moved here. Camp used to give newly captured Pais six month indoctri-
nation course. Photos taken 26 Nov/52 neither confirm nor disprove.
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(f)
Patron-ni
(YD 0667): An unconfirmed report states
200 POWs of unknown
nationality
area.
lived in eight civilian houses
and did farming in this
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(g)
Sinjong-ni
(YC 2755): Unconfirmed report states
400 ROK POWs lived
in 40 civilian
houses this area. ,iorked repairing bridge at YC 2652.
(h) Sohang-ni (YD 2385):
(1) There have been sporadic reports over a long period of a camp at
this location, containing 2,500 ROK PO4s. Photos made 27 Sept/52
show possibility of camp location here.
(i)
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(2) CCRAK F-5640, 2 & 3 Nov/52 lists another Sohang-ni at YD 5303,
with unknown number of ROK POWs. States this camp is an
indoctrination center.
Sono'vonq (CT 5191): A POW camp containing 100 US, 500 ROKs in a
former school and nearby houses this location* PCW S fed 500gr grain a
day. No clothes or bedding issued. US and ROK POWs given same
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treatment, including indoctrination. Converted ROK POWS taken into
NKA, called "Liberated Soldiers".
(Comment: Possibly same camp reported by different source in
SO 102998.)
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CCAAK J-1223, July/52 reported 100 US, 500 ROK POW., this location.
No photo coverage.
Sohwa Electric Factory (YE 0302): Single reports states some of the
700 US, 1,800 ROK POWs in camp near this location work in factory,
remainder are being indoctrinated.
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Toawon-ni (BU 4455): 400 US, 70 ROK POds reported this location.
Kimim-ni camp said to have been moved here. (Photo coverage
25 Nov/52 neither confirms nor disproves.)
2. Old
(a)
Listings, New
Chosan (YF
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report purposes,
As of mid-Sept/52
coal mine pits near
daily. Fed 700 gr.
NKA surgeons, but
Confirmations
3623) (Once considered abolished for
on basis of following information.):
containing 300 ROKs was located in
mined coal on an average of 7 hours
gr. other grain. Sick treated by
reinstated
a POW camp
Chosan. PONS
rice and 30
treatment inadequate. POis were taught NKA regulations and basic
military subjects, given 2-3 hours indoctrination daily. Camp guarded
by platoon of NKA, who were forbidden contact with civilians. Most
of the POW S had enlisted in the 22nd Brigade, NKA after capture but
were discharged
in Apr/52 and sent to Chosen
to wait POW exchange,
50X1 -HUM
(b)
KanadonK (Chiktong
camp, YD 5423)
(1) 180 US, 120 ROK POWs reported here. 130 of US POWs were Negroes,
50 were USAF. POWs lived in five houses 9 x 4 x 4 m. US POWs
in three of houses ROKs in two. Barbed wire around camp. Camp
guarded and operated by 60NKA. Camp commander a Major. POWs
worked repairing roads. Fed 1,000 gr. food daily. Dressed in
brown one-piece fatigues. Given haircut every two weeks, bath
once weekly, Each POW wore white numbered tag by which he was
identified. POWs got occasional package of cigarettes. Camp
occasionally inspected by throe Russians. Camp said to have
been moved to this location Mar/52.
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(Comment: Directorate has had no other reports of Camp at these
exact coordinates, but many reports of camp in general area.)
50X1-HUM
(2) Photo coverage of 24 Oct/52 neither. confirms nor disproves the
many reports on Kangdong camp. Conflict because of confusion
of this camp with Camp Branch 3 (formerly Camp 8) where
180 UN Caucasians and 900 ROK POWs are said to be held.
(3)
50X1-HUM
As of 13 Sept/52, Kangdong Camp 7?8, with 2,000 ROK POWs living in
houses formerly occupied by Taeson_ Coal Mine (YD 5724) employees
was at this location. POWs organized in four companies and
transportation company; four platoons to a company and four
squads to each platoon. POWs used as squad leaders and assistant
platoon leaders. Fed 600 gr. (20% rice) per day. Wore ragged
blue coveralls. Medical facilities poor, POWs unhealthy..
Worked around camp 3-4 hours daily, had 2-3 hours indoctrination
twice a week, discussion periods periodically (where truce talks
not mentioned.) POWs hostile toward guards, some escaped
(usually during air raids). Camp organization: Maj. head;
Captains in charge of political, management, supply sections;
medical section of four under a Jr. It.; approximately 30 addi-
tional personnel on total staff. Camp guarded by 150 NKA under
command of Ministry Internal Affairs, armed with four light
machine guns. Officers carried pistols, EM carried burp guns
and Soviet rifles. PO-RO marker on roof of camp.
50X1-H
(c) Karvoiu-ri (CT 2691): As of Sept/52, 500 ROK POWs reported this
location. No confirmation or photo coverage.
UM
(d) Koeum-ni (YD 5622) (Once considered abolished, reinstated on following
basis): As of Sept/52, a camp containing 300 ROK POWs was in a village
at YD 558222, near Koeum-ni. The village was formerly for employees
of a nearby coal mine. POWs slept in a building 30 x 3 x 3 m., formerly
the billet for male mine workers. Two hour indoctrination course
given three times a week in a tile-roofed building 40 x 20 x 5 m,
with eight windows on N and S sides, eight entrances. PO-RO marker
on S side of roof. PCWI mined coal eight hours a day, beginning work
at 8 a.m. Three - four POWs shared one blanket, used hemp or rice
bags as mattresses. POWs fed 500 gr. rice, 200 gr. soy or corn, with
50X1-HUM
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vegetable side dish.. POWs in poor condition because of hard labor,
poor food, lack of camp sanitation. Camp guarded by three platoon
KKA armed with Soviet rifles and PPShs who patrolled area day and
night.
50X1 -HUM
(e) Pakchun-gol (XC 8550): 10,000 ROK POWs said to be located along
valley 3 km. /I of Pakchun. Source saw 1,000 of these POWs working
on river bank construction project.
II. MANCHURIA-CHINA
A. Old Listings, New Confirmations
50X1 -HUM
1. Mukden (126-93, 46-05) (Considered abolished in former report, existence
reconfirmed by following information): 14 politico-military cadres well
versed in English and Korean were assigned 15 Nov/52 by the General
Political Department, ChiCom Military Council to Mukden to form US and
ROK POWs for thought reform and espionage training. POWs were divided
into three categories:
(a) Younger POWs from Company Officer up who were considered straight-
forward to be trained in thought reform and espionage;
(b) POWs desultory in thought and accustomed to POW life were to be
bribed by material inducements and set to gathering propaganda
which would give them a good impression of the Communists. Their
family correspondence would publicize "happy life" in camps and
create US anti-mar sentiment;
(c) Stubborn POWs were to be segregated from categories (a) and (b),
put to forced labor and refused correspondence.
The ChiCom Military Council selected Quinn, O'Neal and seven other AF
men from Camp 42 as the first group to be trained in Mukden (phonetic
names given by original agent.)
More than 80 ROK POWs were to be selected for three month training at
Mukden. Those considered progressive thinkers to be either released or
smuggled to South Korea for espionage work.
50X1 -HUM
2. Peiping (116-24, 39-36): General Dean refused to cooperate in promotion
of 13 campaign. Reported sent to Peiping.
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SUMMARY OF POW CAMPS
ACKNOWLEDGED CAMPS
1. Imsan-dong (Sakchu)
2. Changson (Er. 2)
i 5. Pyoktong (Kuksa-ri)
4 7. Chon-ma (Ybngsan-ni)
8. Anju
Taetlaryong-ni*
Yongso-ri
9. Chaedong-ni
Singchang-ni
Songhyon-ni
10. Sunan
U. Pyongyang Complex
Huan-dong
Hachu-dong*
Hasokhwa-ri*
Kirim-ni
Mirim-ni (Br. 2)
Namgyo-dong
Namsa-ri
Pyongysang Prison Area*
Soson-ni (Br. 1)
Sijon-myon*
Sinsong-dong*
Yongsong
dasan-ni ?
12. Chlahwangchlon
Soyang-ni
21. Chail-li
22. Tari-gol (Pukchin)
# Manpcjin (back in)
MANCHURIA-
CHINA
LEGEND:
?
UNACKNOWLEDGED CAMPS
Chosan (back in)
Kangdong
Karyoju-ri
Kasong-ni*
Koeum-ni (back in)
Kawan-gun*
Kung-dong*
Naedong-ni*
Oksang-dong Gold Mine*
Pakchun-gol
Powon-rli*
Sinjong-ni*
Sohang-ni*
Sohwa Electric Factory*
Sonplyong*
Togwon-ni*
Mukden (back in)
Peiping
4 Camps at which POWs collected for Apr/53 exchange
* New Listings
? May have been abolished
(back in) Camps believed abolished for lack of information.
New reports reinstate existence.
?
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TaENDS AND MISCALANEOUS COMMENTS (OPINION)
1. In Korea, the foregoing shows twelve acknowledged, eleven numbered
camps (#21 and #22 acknowledged by CCRAK only.) April exchange POWs collected
at Camps 45 and 47, and the previously unacknowledged, unnumbered Manpojin
(except for those POWs captured in Mar/53 and Apr/53.) It also shows sixteen
unacknowledged camps, eleven of which arc new listings, two of which have
previously been considered abolished but which have been reinstated on the
basis of new information. In Manchuria-China, there are two listings: General
Doan reported in Peiping, and Mukden as a thought training and espionage center.
2. POW Control and Movement:
a. A POW General Command has reportedly been set up in the Pyongyang
area at YD 825228 in ten caves of unknown size with four entrances. (See
cited report, Ex. A 410 for location Ex. 10 for details of camp.) This
Command believed to be governing all POW enclosures in NK. Source was
told by civilian in vicinity that the POW registration section of this HQ
was responsible for POW files, and all information re food, medical treat-
ment, suppliess Area guarded by 150 NKA from the Home Ministry Guard Unit,
armed with three heavy machine guns, six light machine guns, 100 PPShs.
Area heavily wooded, naturally camouflaged. No civilians allowed to
enter area. 50X1 -HUM
b. According to an article in magazine Hsing-tao Chou-pao of Hong Kong,
by a Seoul correspondent, all UN Pials under ChiCam control were being sent
either to target areas or to China in large numbers. The first action had
been instituted by the Koreans to decrease UN bombing activity: latter
action WAS used by Chi-Cans as ammunition in further truce talks. Source
said it was very possible the ChiComs would send all UN POWs to the
Chinese mainland.'
(Comment: There have been previous reports re evidenc_ of P041 movements in
EX in vicinity of military targets and from NK in vicinity of military
targets and from NK into China and Manchuria.)
50X1 -HUM
3. laInIerrocaticn and Indoctrination:
a(1) Procurement and interrogation of UK PaUs: Communist forces attempt
to indoctrinate all troops to the value of capturing UN personnel, or in.
ducing them to surrender. Troops to squad level given oral propaganda
phrases to memorize, interrogation forms to be filled in by UN POWs imm '
mediately after capture, instructions for use in Chinese and English for
front line units. Forms ask information and diagrams re strength and
disposition of POWs' unit, artillery positions, supply dumps, ammo and
other equipment reserves, etc. After front line interrogation Communists
rely an shock and fear to got cooperation. Before POqs sent to rear, they're
told of CCF good treatment policy, and that CCF thought "all capitalists
their enemies." After first phases of capture, UN POWs' chances for sur-
vival are good: they are interrogated by "psychological persuasion", and
POWs refusing to fill out interrogation forms are not punished.
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a(2) Indoctrination of UN POWs: The Communists' attempt to indoctri-
nate UN Pais on first contact, greeting them as "liberated brothers",
telling them they have been misled and are "imperialist tools", not
individually responsible for anti-Communist actions. Thpy are also told
they will see the error of their ways and learn the right of Communism.
Only torture used was psychological--releasethopes were alternately
build up and dashed. Degree of indoctrination depended on eventual use
planned for POWs. 50X1-HUM
b. As of Dec/52, the Recon. Platoon of the 91st Regt. captured US
PUT in vicinity of Hill 601 (DT 3550) and brought him to Recon. Plat. CP.
Here US POW was treated as a guest, given same food as NK troops. He
was interrogated by a Sr. Lt. imported from 45th NK Div. CP. When he
was released (for unknoTm reasons) he was accompanied by five members
of the Recon. Plat. to UN aa, and given a parting Christmas gift by
the Sr. Lt.
50X1-HUM
c. Five loose notebook sheets of a captured enemy document (printed
in Chinese) sets forth these principles for indoctrination of US POWs:
(1) How we treat US POWs: dolit kill or maltreat, don't take
personal per.isessions, treat the wounded. Treat all Pais equally
because "US capitalists are the real enemy and the majority of POWs
were laborers who were forced to fi7ht." If POis lay down their arms,
they are not the enemy. POWs must obey orders or they will be
punished.
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
For whom are they fighting and why?
Who invaded whom?
Who won and who lost?
Who is enemy of the US people?
500th AISG Bul. Enemy Documents, #101, 22 Dec/53
?
4. Treatment of UF POWs:
a. Stories of POW treatment told by exchanged P048 vary widely.
It is noteworthy that the prisoners in the first convoy (19 Apr/53) to
be exchan,ed felt, on the whole, that the Reds "had done as well by us
as they could." Ten of the Pals in this convoy, which collected at
Chon-ma came from Pyoktong, known to be the largest of the NK indoctri-
nation camps, and four of these ten are on the Communist-suspect "watch
list", available from intelligence sources.
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While ten of the prisoners in the 20 Apr/53 convoy had been interned
at Pyoktong, none of their names appear on the watch list, and several
of them told reporters stories of atrocity and brutality to POWs, so
apparently their indoctrination had not been successful. (In this con-
nection, it must be noted that most of the reported atrocities occurred
in late 1950 and early 1951.) The three watch list suspects from this
group came from Changson camp, as did the three from the group re-
patriated 23 Apr/53.
Brutal treatment of sick, wounded, and undernourished POWs, according
to one of the few officers exchanged to date, "improved or fell off
according to progress at the truce talks....when the negotiations picked
up, the Chinese had buddy buddy week with us." The officer, 1st Lt. Roy
M. Jones, Minneapolis, also said indoctrination was stopped completely
last year when "we saw in the Communists' paper that the Commies had
objected at the truce talks to indoctrination of their prisoners. Atter
that they stopped indoctrinating us."
POW exchange of the third day was of prisoners all but two of whom
were captured in March, and who had thus never been in a rear-area
camp. These men had little complaint of their treatment,
b. The prisoner exchange and several recent magazine articles have
made the public more aware of the 3,000 plus discrepancy between the
Defense Department MIA total and the US prisoners admittedly in Communist
hands. 1950-51 atrocities, malnutrition, forced labor, resulting ill-
ness, etc., might account for many of this number, but not for all.
Attention is called to three magazine articles, all published in April
1953:
(1) "Unreported G.I.is in Siberia," Nagorski, ESQUIRE, May
issue, p. 51.
(2) "Deal for US POWs in Korea,' US NEWS AND 'WORLD REPORT,
April 24 issuo? p. 35,
"I Saw Your Prisoner Sons," Yeh Min, PARADE, Sunday, April 5,
( 3 )
While none of these articles are based on confirmed information, all
mention the possibility of unaCcounted-for POWs being in Manchuria,
China, and/or Russia. Released as they were at the time of the POW
exchange, and coupled with stories of returning POWs themselves, they
will undoubtedly influence general suspicion of Red motives and
intentions in any possible future POW exchanges.
Regarding motives and intentions, the primary POW-returnee complaint
was that much sicker men had been left behind in camp. Several were
actually bewildered as to why they had been selected for exzhange. It
is always possible that the unforeseen immediacy of the exchange caught
the Reds unaware and without the time for proper screening of sick and
wounded POWs. However, viewing the geographic spread of the returnees'
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hometowns, it is more logical to believe that they had been carefully
selected, and long in advance of the exchange, not for extent of wounds
or illness, but for possible use to the Communist Party, Returnees will
come back to homes concentrated along lines of communication and in the
southern mountain coal mining area. In almost every case, the returneels
hometown is within easy distance of some strategic US defense area (Oak
Ridge, Llamagordo, Rock Island Arsenal, several lar:e air force bases,
etc.) A top-heavy percentage comes from Puerto Rico.
Of the watch list returnees, one comes from a small town in southern
-eine, not far from Boston; one each from New York City and Philadelphia
with their shipyards; one from Oklahoma City and its oil supply; two
from the southern coal mining area; one from Syracuse and the Great
Lakes shipping system; and one from San Francisco.
5. Pronaanda:
a. During February and 'larch 1953, the RV campaign, which had con-
tinued with varying intensity since itsiinception in February 1952, was
revived by the ChiComs.
(1) 20 Feb/53 Peiping broadcast (FBIS-monitored): "US planes
dropped insects on Manchurian and North Korean towns during December."
(2) 22 & 24 Feb/53, Peiping broadcasts: "Two senior USHC 1st
Marine Air !ing officers confirmed that the JCS directed planned BW,
following reports of international investigating bodies. (Col. F. H.
Schwable, Maj. R. H. Bley's depositions followed.)
(3) 5 Mar/53 broadcast: Peiping accused British Minister of
State Selwyn Lloyd of "covering up" US Bvl by denying Alan WinningtoRls
accusations of "a conspiracy of silence in Tokyo, Washington and
London."
(4) 6*w/53 Pyongyang broadcast: POW' EhOth (Camp #5)hid sent a
letter to The Congress of Peoples for Poem in Timms glinikting beett2 ?ail-
ing foi an.sazlysclution to the war and'a bait to W. Par Clutha (also
at Camp 5) had written a similar letter to the Congress. (NB: Both
letters were introduced on the broadcast by identical wording in
their forwards.)
b. Early April 1953 broadcasts concentrate on the latest effort to
achieve a peaceful settlement of the prisoner issue; broadcasts made
after the POW exchange had begun recite the "good trestment'of POWO-linsw
The following elements characterize the current propaganda pattern:
(1) A drop in atrocity charges prior to the resumption of truce
talks in 6 Apr/53 indicate a desire to avoid comment which might
hinder a truce agreement. This is the first time attention has been
given to an amenability phase of the Korean war rather than to the
denunciation of US "aggression or bestiality:"
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(2) Increased comment on recent military operations, which may
stem from a desire to prove the Commies are negotiating from a
position of strength. Propaganda-wise, Peiping seems to be setting
the stage for a claim that their basic objectives in Korea have been
have been attained.
(3) Repatriation of UN POWs: description of good treatment on
convoys; POd comment on ending the war; claim that many of wounded
POWs had been hurt in UN bombings of camps; description of farewells
in camp; gratitude of POWs to captors for good treatment while
interned; sugrestion by various returnees that they would probably
benhospitallzed" for quite awhile after their return--misgivings
over prospects of the "screening and remodeling course" awaiting
them on the other side.
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