In a shocking turn of events that has sent shockwaves through South Korean politics, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung was violently attacked during a press briefing in Busan on Tuesday morning.
Violent Assault During Public Appearance
The prominent Democratic Party figure was touring the site of a proposed new airport when an unidentified individual approached him and stabbed him in the left side of his neck. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as security personnel and aides rushed to subdue the attacker while administering emergency first aid to the bleeding politician.
Emergency Response and Hospitalisation
Mr Lee was immediately transported to Pusan National University Hospital, where medical teams worked to stabilise his condition. Early reports from hospital officials indicated he remained conscious following the attack, though the severity of his injuries remained unclear.
Political Shockwaves
The assault has triggered widespread condemnation across the political spectrum, with both ruling and opposition parties expressing outrage at the violent attack on a serving politician. President Yoon Suk Yeol's office released a statement describing the incident as "utterly unacceptable" and calling for maximum security measures for all public figures.
Investigation Underway
Local police have confirmed the arrest of the suspected assailant, a man in his 50s whose motives remain unknown. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the attack, examining security protocols and the circumstances that allowed the assailant to get so close to the high-profile politician.
International Concern
The stabbing has drawn international attention, with several foreign embassies in Seoul monitoring the situation closely. Political violence of this nature is relatively rare in South Korea, making this incident particularly alarming for the nation's democratic institutions.
