In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through South Korean politics, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung was stabbed in the neck during a public appearance in Busan. The attack occurred as the Democratic Party chief was touring the site of a proposed airport, engaging with reporters and supporters.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the assailant, posing as an autograph-seeker, suddenly lunged at the prominent politician. Security personnel quickly subdued the attacker while emergency medical teams rushed to aid the bleeding leader.
Emergency Response and Hospitalisation
Lee was immediately transported to Pusan National University Hospital where surgeons performed emergency treatment for a 1cm laceration to his jugular vein. Medical staff reported the procedure was successful, though the politician remains under close observation.
"The wound was deeper than initially assessed," revealed hospital officials. "Fortunately, skilled surgical intervention prevented potentially life-threatening complications."
Political Fallout and Reactions
The stabbing has prompted widespread condemnation across South Korea's political spectrum. President Yoon Suk-yeol denounced the violence as "an attack on our democracy itself," while colleagues from Lee's Democratic Party called for enhanced security measures for public figures.
This incident occurs at a particularly sensitive time in South Korean politics, with parliamentary elections scheduled for April and Lee positioning himself as a potential presidential candidate in 2027.
Investigation Underway
Busan police have launched a thorough investigation into the attack. Preliminary reports suggest the suspect, a man in his 60s, acted alone. Authorities are examining his motives and possible political affiliations.
This violent episode marks one of the most serious attacks on a South Korean politician in recent years, raising concerns about the increasingly polarised political climate in the country.
