200

Psychological warfare leaflets for distribution behind the North Korean lines.

Korea, 1952-1953
30 American leaflets printed for distribution to North Korean and Chinese soldiers, 21 of them stapled to mimeograph or carbon-copy English-language explanations of their contents; generally minor to moderate wear.

The leaflets were produced for distribution behind enemy lines by the Psychological Warfare Division of the Eighth United States Army. They attempted to exploit the hunger and poor conditions on the North Korean lines. Usually illustrated and featuring a combination of Chinese, Korean and English text, they encouraged surrender and defection, and promised safe treatment on the other side. Some targeted civilians, advertising the better living conditions in South Korea. 

The accompanying English-language descriptions often detail the genesis of the leaflets: which army units requested them, how they were distributed, and even the specific enemy units they were intended to reach. One shows an American officer with two Chinese POWs, smiling and sharing a cigarette, with an explanation of how to surrender on verso. Another states plainly in bold red Chinese characters: "While peace is so near, why must you be forced to die?" Three are safe conduct passes, granting "good treatment to any enemy soldier desiring to cease fighting."  

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