In a shocking incident, South Korea’s main opposition party leader, Lee Jae-myung, was stabbed in the neck during a visit to Busan, leaving him bloodied but conscious. The attack occurred while Lee was inspecting the Gadeokdo New Airport construction site and engaging with reporters, as confirmed by Democratic Party spokesperson Kwon Chil-seung.
Lee sustained a 1-centimeter laceration on his neck, with concerns raised about potential damage to his jugular vein. He was quickly transferred to Seoul National University Hospital for urgent surgery. Kwon labeled the assault as an act of “terrorism” and a grave threat to democracy.
Live television footage captured the assailant lunging at Lee before being subdued by onlookers. Images from the scene depicted Lee on the ground, receiving immediate attention for his injuries.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed profound concern for Lee’s well-being, emphasizing the imperative to investigate the incident promptly. Meanwhile, Democratic Party floor leader Hong Ik-pyo urged members to maintain composure and avoid politicizing the assault.
This incident amplifies concerns amid South Korea’s deeply polarized political landscape. Notably, Lee, a liberal figure, narrowly lost the presidential election to Yoon of the conservative People Power Party in 2022. He subsequently assumed leadership of the Democratic Party and has been preparing for upcoming parliamentary elections.
Historically, South Korea has witnessed other high-profile political violence cases, including an attack on Lee’s predecessor, Song Young-gil, during the 2022 presidential campaign. Additionally, former President Park Geun-hye faced a knife assault in 2006, highlighting the nation’s recurring challenges with political security.
