South Korean Opposition Leader Stabbed in Neck Amidst Public Address
Lee Jae-myung Survives Assassination Attempt, Prompts National Outrage
South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is recuperating in intensive care following a harrowing incident on Tuesday. He was stabbed in the neck by an assailant who infiltrated a crowd under the guise of being a supporter, as confirmed by his political party.
The startling attack unfolded amid a swarm of journalists, recounted Busan police official Son Je-han during a press briefing. The assailant abruptly lunged at Lee, striking the left side of his neck before being subdued.
Following the assault, Lee was swiftly transported to a hospital in Busan. However, due to the severity of his injuries, he was subsequently airlifted to Seoul, where he underwent a critical two-hour surgery, detailed Kwon Chil-seung from Lee’s Democratic Party to the press. Kwon emphasized the confirmed damage to Lee’s internal jugular vein.
Providing an update on Lee’s condition, Kwon informed reporters that the politician remained conscious after the surgery. He is currently receiving care in the intensive care unit as he continues his recovery.
The assailant, a man in his 60s, wielded an 18cm knife, with a blade measuring 13cm, which he reportedly purchased online, according to Police official Son. Dramatic footage aired on South Korean TV depicted the apprehension of the attacker, who brandished a pro-Lee slogan.
Reports indicate that South Korean authorities intend to press attempted murder charges against the assailant. The attacker allegedly confessed to the police, revealing his intent to assassinate Lee.
Eyewitnesses described the chilling moment when the attacker, seemingly seeking an autograph, approached Lee as he conversed with reporters before the assault occurred. Video footage captured Lee collapsing as bystanders rushed to aid him. Earlier reports suggested a one-centimeter laceration as a result of the attack, as stated by fire department officials to Yonhap news agency.
This isn’t the first instance of violence against prominent South Korean politicians. In 2022, Song Young-gil, the former leader of the Democratic Party, was struck on the head by an elderly man wielding a blunt object. Additionally, in 2006, Park Geun-hye, who later became the country’s president, faced a knife attack during a rally, leaving her with a facial scar.
