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South Korean Opposition Leader Lee Jae-myung Stabbed in Busan
On January 2, 2024, Lee Jae-myung, the leader of South Korea's Democratic Party, was stabbed in the neck during a visit to Busan. The incident occurred while Lee was addressing reporters at a construction site in the port city. According to Yonhap news agency, the attacker, a 66-year-old man, approached Lee under the pretext of asking for an autograph before lunging at him with an 18cm knife purchased online.
Lee sustained a 1cm laceration on the left side of his neck and was airlifted to a hospital for treatment. Doctors reported that the wound was not life-threatening, but there were concerns about potential damage to his jugular vein, necessitating immediate surgery to prevent further bleeding.
The attacker reportedly intended to kill Lee, though the motive behind the attack remains unclear. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from political leaders, including President Yoon Suk Yeol, who emphasized that such acts of violence should not be tolerated in South Korean society.
Prosecutors plan to charge the suspect with attempted murder. The attack has been described as a serious threat to democracy, prompting calls for a thorough investigation.
Sources:
Yonhap News Agency (via BBC) - Lee Jae-myung: South Korea opposition leader stabbed in neck on visit to Busan
Yonhap News Agency (via ABC News) - South Korean opposition leader stabbed, rushed to hospital
Yonhap News Agency (via Wikipedia) - Yoon Suk Yeol