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보/고/서

ATIS INTERROGATION REPORT NO. 4447

FIELD REPORT (ADVATIS FWD 0024)　30 November 1950

Fairly cooperative but appeared to be averse giving information. Seemed to be intelligent. Information considered fairly reliable.

See reference report for Chronology.

GENERAL INFORMATION - MUKDEN(牡丹), MANCHURIA - Nov 48 to Aug 50.

Population:

In Nov 48, heard that total population of MUKDEN slightly exceeded 800,000 persons. This number was increased gradually to approx 900,000 by mid-1950. Of this total number, about 10,000 persons were Koreans. Up to the end of World War II, there were several times the above number of Koreans. However, many returned to KOREA, because the Chinese abused them in many different ways (race riots, stealing, burning of homes, murders, etc). The Chinese and the Korean people definitely did not get along well domestically or commercially.

There were an unknown number of white Russians and Japanese still residing in MUKDEN as of Aug 50. Relieved that their freedom was greatly restricted by the CCF. The Japanese were mostly skilled workers, such as doctors, engineers, and factory technicians. Did not know whether they were forced to stay in MUKDEN or were remaining of their own free will.

Work Conditions:

The majority of the Koreans in MUKDEN were either engaged as small merchants, farmers, or general laborers. They were not allowed to hold public or government offices, including police and fire departments. Prior to Nov 48, when the CNA was in MUKDEN and vicinity, the Koreans were able to buy and sell land. Numerous Koreans acquired large sections of land on the outskirts of the city as farmlands. Immediately after the entry of CCF, all Korean land, including those of the Chinese, were confiscated and redistributed under the new land Reform Policy. Believed that the Koreans (poor farmers, who previously did not own land) received the majority of swampy plots, which were suitable only for using the wet-system of rice-growing. It is the PW opinion that the Chinese received better sections of land. However, distribution of farmlands in size appeared to be same for both races.

The Chinese were engaged mostly in commercial businesses, such s restaurants, cafes, tailor shops, laundries, herb-shop, fruit- stores, etc. Many Chinese in the upper class held public or government positions. Many of them formerly owned large department stores, banks, etc, confiscated by the CCF. A few large business establishments, however, retained the original civilian ownership. The middle­class people in MUKDEN usually consists of public servants (police and fire department, railroad workers, teachers, doctors, etc.)

Public Opinion and Morale:

The populace of MUKDEN first viewed the arrival of the CCF in Nov 48 with mixed feelings. The only ones happy to see the new arrivals were the poor farmers and laborers, who thought that once the social class distinctions were abolished, they would be equal in standing, with the here-to-fore well-to-do people. Their happiness was short-lived, as higher taxes, longer working hears, etc, soon disillusioned them. The new land-owners or farmers, in order to pay for the newly acquired privileges were coupe lied to turn over about 25% of the total crop yield. This percentage, at times, went as high as 50%. With the deduction of taxes (once yearly) the average family barely managed to make a living. The collective farming system in the outskirts of MUKDEN did not allow any family to save much money. The general laborers, while receiving the same amount of pay, were required to work longer hours. Income taxes (amount unk) were increased, while the commodity prices soared. To combat inflation, the CCF controlled the output of everyday goods and fixed the prices on the majority of the products. Luxury items immediately disappeared from the markets and were hoarded by the owners.

With such results as above, the morale of the population dropped considerably lower than it originally was (late 1948 and early 1949). The people were kept in a constant state of fear. It seemed that there were CCF informants in all walks of life in MUKDEN. Numerous “reactionists” were carried away to prisons. (They had been overheard denouncing the CCF).

War Attitude:

The conditions in MUKDEN were in such a poor state that there were few citizens, who approved of living in war time. Except for black-marketeers and others, who benefit free human misery, the population of MUKDEN was “sick” of war.

One of the greatest contributing factors to this anti-war feeling was the enforced sale of war bonds (The civilians were not being conscripted into CCF service). In the spring of 1949 the CCF commenced to “sell” war bonds to the people of MUKDEN. The total amount of money sought by the CCF was unknown. It was reported that war bond drives would be held, each spring. At first the CCF displayed posters and staged rallies to sell the bonds on a free-will basis. However, the lack of cooperation on the part of the citizens prompted the CCF to “sell” the bonds in another manner. On the surface the CCF demonstrated that the people were flocking to buy the bonds to get the interest benefits. The real picture revealed that the CCF issued a set amount of bonds to be sold to each and every district of MUKDEN. The lowest war bond denomination was 50,000 yuan. (NOTE: 1 pack of good US cigarettes was worth the above amount). Even the poorest family was compelled to buy bonds in the amount of several hundred-thousand yuan. Some of the poorest farmers and laborers were forced to sell their household furniture and clothing to raise the proper amount of money. Unlike the US war bonds, a buyer, when purchasing a 50,000 yuan bond, actually pays that amount. After a period of 5 years the original amount, plus the interest (rate unk) is supposed to be returned to the buyer. People did not have much faith in these bonds.

Another contributing factor to the present war attitude was caused by the increased rate of production in everything, from food- stuffs to factory products, to feed, clothe, and. equip the CCF. Emphasis was always placed on increasing production with, greater effort.

Religion:

Freedom of religion MUKDEN was not abolished entirely. The people were permitted to use churches and temples, but only with the supervision of the CCF. Believed that CCF indoctrinated priests .and bishops replaced the original leaders.

Since the majority of the population in MUKDEN was Chinese, and were followers of the Buddhist faith; there were very few Christians (mostly Koreans). The number of Koreans attending Christian churches gradually diminished toward the end of 1949. These churches, now receiving no support from their members, literally were abandoned.

The Chinese Buddhist followers, however, fared better. As late as Aug 50 they were apparently conducting (no-CCF-interference) services within the temples.

Education:

There was no mandatory education system enforced by the CCF for children of MUKDEN. Since there were no public schools, only those who could afford the tuition and text books attended classes. Despite the drawbacks, more children received schooling under the CCF than during the reign of CNA. The percentage of children attending school was unknown. It is believed that only teachers thoroughly indoctrinated with Communistic principles were permitted to teach.

There were several colleges and universities in MUKDEN. These were all controlled by the CCF Government. Believed that the CCF frequently incited the students to boost the morale of the population by carrying posters in parades. Further details are unknown.

ARMY ARSENAL - MUKDEN (牡丹), MANCHURIA - Nov 48 to Aug 50

Summary:

A large unidentified CCF arsenal was located in the vicinity of MUKDEN. It was formerly owned and operated by the Japanese government. It was taken over by the CNA at the end of World War II, and them by the CCF in Nov 48.

Observation:

During the period Nov 48 to Aug 50, observed this arsenal on several occasions from distances of more than 1 km, while on duty as a chief of coal supply section of the CCF Trade Section. Since the entire vicinity of the arsenal was “off-limits”, was not able to approach closely and make detailed observations.

Location:

The arsenal was located approx 8 km E of the main MUKDEN RR sta, 2.5 km N of a large Chinese business compound (formerly an ancient Chinese castle. Ruins still remain), and 2.5 km S of a tall Chinese East pagoda (sacred tower) Refer to Sketch # 1.

Area:

From his point of observation, estimated that the arsenal area measured 800 meters long and 650 meters wide. The area was rectangular in shape and appeared to be surrounded by a 3 meter high barb wire fence. Numerous watch towers (of 8 meter height) were located at strategic places on the outside of the fence. The terrain in the immediate four sides of the arsenal area was level and open. No farms or residential houses were permitted to stand.

Accessibility:

A 20 meters wide road led from the main RR sta to the vicinity of the plant area. This road was covered by asphalt and equipped with a double-tracked street car line.

As far as the PW knows, there were no RR spur-lines leading into the arsenal area. However, a standard double-track line connecting MUKDEN RR sta with MUSUN (撫順) ran past the arsenal on its North side at a distance of approx 1 km. MUSAN City was situated about 32 km E of MUKDEN.

Facilities:

Due to the long-range observations made, he was unable to distinguish the number and dimensions of the buildings. Some were single-storied, while others wore multi-storied. All were constructed of ash-colored concrete bricks. Their roofs were all gabled and covered with cement tile. The buildings were not painted in camouflage patterns. There were several (number unknown) brick chimnies of various height. They were constantly belching black smoke.

Operated By:

This arsenal was operated by the CCF 24 hours daily, ever since it took control in Nov 48. No military personnel, other than guards, were employed within the arsenal.

Product:

Heard from his fellow officers that this arsenal was producing unidentified arty shells. Other products being manufactured were unknown. During the Japanese reign this arsenal was producing tanks and even aircraft parts. Under the CNA rule, sub-machine guns and ammo were turned out. Thus it is the informant’s opinion that the CCF has the tools and machinery to produce the same type of arms, ammo, and equipment.

Did not observe any finished products being hauled out of the arsenal area by trucks during daylight. The goods may be shipped out to unknown destinations under cover of darkness.

Personnel:

An unknown number of Chinese civilians were employed daily on three 8 hour shifts. The total number of workers was believed to run into thousands. There were some indications (rumors and hearsay) that Japanese technicians were forcibly employed at the arsenal. They were believed to be here since the days before the end of the World War II. Did not know whether or not any Koreans were engaged in the arsenal.

General Information:

This arsenal received its electrical current from MUSUN, where a thermo-electric plant was located. Heard that this arsenal would not be able to operate, if the supply of current was cut off from MUSUN. He had no further information concerning the thermo-electric power plant.

As far as PW knows, the Russians did not dismantle any machinery from this arsenal at the end of the late war. Did not see or hear anything concerting the appearance of Russian military officers in the arsenal.

On 4 Nov 48, immediately after the CCF took over the control of the arsenal, an unknown number of CNA aircraft bombed this target. At that time the arsenal was not in operation; however, the bombing caused considerable damage to the machinery.

No further information.

4th FIELD ARMY (CCF) HQ - MUKDEN (牡丹), MANCHURIA - Nov 48 - Aug 50

Summary:

A large CCF Hq building was situated in the heart of MUKDEN. It was formerly the Manchuria Railroad Co building (under the Japanese control). Observed the following inscriptions (Northeast Army District Hq) alongside of the main entrance. Heard and believed that the 4th Field Army Hq was presently located in this building.

Observation:

During the above period from Nov 48 to Aug 50, frequently observed the above mentioned building from close distance, as he walked about in heart of the city. He never approached or entered this building.

Location (Refer to sketch # ):

The Hq building was located approx 500 meters ENE of the main MUKDEN RR sta and 500 meters E of the large Manchuria West Pagoda (sacred tower). The building overlooked a 6 meter wide asphalt street. At a distance of about 150 meters to the rear of the building a main street with a trolley-line was located.

Description of Building:

The Hq building faced toward SE (main entrance). It was completely surrounded by a 2 meter high barb-wire fence. This fenced area measured approx 260 meters long by 220 meters wide. The enclosed building, which was about 140 meters long by 100 meters wide, was four stories high and constructed entirely of concrete. The roof was flat, its construction material unknown.

This building was the most impressive and largest in MUKDEN. All the exterior walls were camouflaged with black snaky stripes to prevent aerial detection. Numerous trees were located in the vicinity of the building.

Personnel:

Observed that high-ranking Chinese military officers usually frequented this Hq building. They all arrived and departed in special personal sedans driven by chauffeurs. Believed that until the HAINAN-TO invasion was commenced by the CCF, the 4th Field Army commander LIN, PIAO presided over this Hq building. PW heard that during the absence of the commander in the spring of 1950, the 4th Field Army Chief of Staff O, (fnu) was in command.

The number of personnel stationed in this building and their various duties were unknown to the PW. He did not believe that Korean military officers were allowed to enter this Hq

Security:

Besides the illuminated (at night) barb-wire fence, several CCF security unit (unknown) soldiers were used as guards of this Hq. At least 2 soldiers stood at the main fence entrance 24 hours daily.

No strolling or loitering in the vicinity of this building was permitted. In fact the front 6 meter wide asphalt street was usually barred to civilian traffic.

The building itself was almost completely illuminated throughout the night. Several soldiers, as guards, walked within the fence enclosed area.

Only military official sedans seating high-ranking officers were permitted to pass into the Hq ground and then only after identification. All others are stopped at the gate, and the authorization permits are minutely enter the compound.

When official cars enter the Hq compound, special attention is paid by the chauffeurs to conceal their vehicles under the thick growth of trees. No cars are ever observed in the front parking zone of the building. Reasons for this action is unknown.

General Information:

There were a few Army Groups immediately under the 4th Field Army Hq. Numerous individual armies were subordinate to each army group. Heard that the 4th Field Army was composed of about 1,000,000 soldiers, who were all reported to be in MANCHURIA. He also heard that in the spring of 1950, an unidentified CCF Army Group of the 4th Field Army invaded HAINAN-TO, one of the few remaining strong­holds of the CNA.

Did not have any information on high-ranking Russian officers entering or departing the Hq building. There is a possibility, he stated, that the Russians, were conferring with the CCF without his knowledge.

No further details available.

GENERAL INFORMATION - MUKDEN (牡丹), MANCHURIA - Nov 48 to Aug 50

Curfew:

When the CCF occupied MUKDEN in Nov 48, it enforced curfew hours from 2100 to 0600. This practice was entirely abolished in late Dec 49. As late as Aug 50 there was no curfew system enforced.

ID Cards:

Did not believe that the citizens of MUKDEN were compelled to carry personal identification cards. He stressed the point that the CCF did not closely control the lives of average citizens.

Travel Permits:

The average citizen did not have to have travel permits to travel within MANCHURIA. The people were free to travel without restrictions.

Conscription:

As late as Aug 503 the CCF was not conscripting Chinese or Koreans in MANCHURIA. In fact the CCF presently have more than enough soldiers in MANCHURIA and CHIINA. The total strength of the CCF was 6,000,000 men. Old, feeble-minded, crippled, and wounded men were gradually being sent home. It is the informant's opinion that the CCF, under the present conditions, would not be able to feed, clothe, and equip a force of 5,000,000 men adequately. In time of crisis an unlimited number of men can be conscripted from the “reserve” pool. Countless thousands of Chinese youths are now receiving military training as part of their daily school course. Believed that the men will be furnished new arms, which are now being manufactured in CHINA and MANCHURIA.

For the Commanding Officer:

SKETCH #1 CCF ARSENAL ARMY HQ MUKDEN CITY SA OF AUG 50