In a shocking incident, a South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for the suspect involved in the attack on Lee Jae-myung, chairman of the main opposition Democratic Party, as reported by Yonhap.
Arrest Warrant Issued for Attack on Opposition Leader
The suspect, identified as Kim (67), stabbed Lee in the neck while pretending to be an autograph-seeker during Lee's visit to Busan. The attack took place on Tuesday morning, and Kim, known for his extreme political views, was immediately detained at the scene.
Political Violence Raises Concerns
Despite having a history of radical political views, Kim's motive remains unknown. He confessed to attempting to kill the politician and claimed to have plotted the attack alone. Police conducted searches at Kim's residence and office in Asan, examining his cellphone for further investigation.
Lee's Recovery and Ongoing Concerns
Lee, who underwent surgery to repair a major vein injured in the attack, is now out of intensive care. However, post-surgery complications cannot be ruled out, and continued observation is necessary. Professor Min Seung-kee from Seoul National University Hospital's vascular surgery unit provided updates on Lee's recovery at a news briefing.
Call for Enhanced Security Measures
Party Leader Condemns Attack
The attack on Chairman Lee Jae-myung has raised questions about the safety of high-profile politicians in South Korea, considering the nation's history of political violence and strict gun controls. Democratic Party floor leader Hong Ik-pyo called it a challenge against democracy and a threat to democratic values. He urged a prompt investigation and enhanced security for political figures.
Eye-Witness Advocates Improved Security
Jin Jeong-hwa, a party supporter who witnessed the stabbing, emphasized the need for dedicated and professional security protection for political leaders. He suggested that opposition leaders like Lee require a specialized security detail, highlighting the vulnerability of politicians to personal safety threats during public events.
Conclusion
The shocking incident has prompted a reevaluation of security measures for high-profile political figures in South Korea. The call for a speedy investigation and enhanced security reflects concerns about the safety of political leaders despite existing precautions.