Tuesday, January 02, 2024

South Korean Opposition Leader Stabbed

A quick and vicious attack:

The Chairman of the Democratic Party of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, was attacked today during his visit to Busan. The incident occurred at approximately 10:25 a.m. when Lee was inspecting the site of the new airport in Daehang-dong, Gangseo-gu.

As Lee engaged with reporters and answered questions about the establishment of a new party by former Chairman Lee Nak-yon, a presumed assailant in his 60s to 70s approached the Chairman, pushing through the crowd and demanding his signature. The assailant, wearing a blue paper crown and wielding a 30cm-long weapon, attacked Lee on the left back of his neck.

Supporters, initially cheering Lee on, quickly turned to shock as the Chairman fell to the ground. Party officials rushed to provide first aid, as Lee’s shirt became soaked with blood. The 119 emergency ambulance did not arrive until 10:34 a.m., causing further concern for Lee’s well-being.

The assailant was promptly arrested by the police at the scene. The exact motive behind the attack remains unknown as the suspect has not disclosed his identity. The Gangseo Police Station confirmed that the suspect is currently being escorted to the station.

Lee was loaded into the ambulance at 10:51 a.m., and by 10:52 a.m., the ambulance departed for Busan University Hospital. The severity of Lee’s injuries is not fully known, but reports suggest he suffered a deep wound in the neck area, resulting in significant bleeding. He is reported to be conscious.

The attack has forced the cancellation of Lee’s scheduled meeting with former President Moon Jae-in in Pyeongsan Village, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, at 11:30 a.m. Party leaders are expected to gather at Busan University Hospital to assess the situation.

 

More to come.

 



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