In a shocking incident, South Korean opposition party leader Lee Jae-myung was stabbed while engaging with reporters in the port city of Busan. The assault, reported by Yonhap news agency, involved a knife wound to his neck.

Emergency responders swiftly transported Mr. Lee to the hospital via ambulance, later transferring him by helicopter, as revealed by Yonhap. Despite bleeding, he remained conscious during the transportation.

According to information from the police in Busan, Mr. Lee sustained a "one-centimetre laceration on his neck," as reported by South Korean news outlet Chosun Ilbo. Fortunately, an official from the hospital assured that the injury was not life-threatening.

Local television channels aired distressing images of the opposition leader on the ground with someone applying a handkerchief to his neck immediately after the attack. Additionally, footage captured the assailant lunging at Mr. Lee, striking him with an object, and the opposition leader collapsing as onlookers rushed to assist.

Mr. Lee, remaining conscious, was promptly taken to the hospital, while the unidentified assailant was apprehended at the scene, according to Yonhap news agency. Reports suggest that the suspect is a man in his 50s or 60s.

The attack occurred as Mr. Lee was navigating through a group of journalists after inspecting the site of a new airport. The assailant, seemingly approaching Mr. Lee under the pretext of seeking an autograph and wearing what appeared to be a paper crown, suddenly lunged forward, initiating the attack, local media detailed.

Police officials and bystanders were observed subduing the attacker. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol denounced the assault, deeming it unacceptable. He expressed deep concern for Mr. Lee and instructed that the best care be provided to ensure a swift recovery, as stated by his office.

BOB Post