South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday said that Seoul would proceed without disruption to finalise the transfer of wartime operational control from the US four-star general leading the Combined Forces Command. He also added that joint military drills between the US and South Korea are defensive in nature and do not reflect an intention to attack North Korea or escalate tension on the Korean Peninsula.The issue dates back to the Korean War, when the two sides signed an armistice instead of a formal peace treaty in 1953, meaning the two Korean sides technically remain at war. South Korea have been hosting US troops ever since. It is home to Camp Humphreys, the largest American military base outside the US. The two militaries train and operate together closely, including through large-scale annual exercises such as this week’s. The authority to direct South Korean forces has remained with the US command since then, if the war resumes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-israeli-strikes-syria-unnecessary-escalation-1787057317385">Israel strikes Syrian airbase; US calls strikes an ‘unnecessary escalation’</a>Seoul regained peacetime control of its military in 1994, but wartime control has remained with the US and reclaiming it has become a symbol of national sovereignty and one of the foremost security goals.&nbsp;“A strong alliance makes the foundation of security stronger, and strengthening our own capabilities increases our value and necessity as an ally,” said Lee in a cabinet meeting describing the alliance as mutually reinforcing.&nbsp;The response from Seoul, as per Yonhap, came after President Trump on Sunday ordered the Pentagon to "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, calling them "costly" and sending a "hostile signal" to Pyongyang.&nbsp;During the briefing at the Oval Office, Trump said that the North Korean leader has responded to his order to the Pentagon but did not provide details. "You see, I’m actually making it much safer. Kim Jong-un has always treated me with great respect,” he said. “I understand him. He understands me.”Trump has previously suspended major US-South Korean military exercises in pursuit of diplomacy with Kim in 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung says Seoul will proceed with the wartime operational control transfer from US forces despite Trump’s call to reduce joint military drills.

South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday said that Seoul would proceed without disruption to finalise the transfer of wartime operational control from the US four-star general leading the Combined Forces Command. He also added that joint military drills between the US and South Korea are defensive in nature and do not reflect an intention to attack North Korea or escalate tension on the Korean Peninsula. The issue dates back to the Korean War, when the two sides signed an armistice instead of a formal peace treaty in 1953, meaning the two Korean sides technically remain at war. South Korea have been hosting US troops ever since. It is home to Camp Humphreys, the largest American military base outside the US. The two militaries train and operate together closely, including through large-scale annual exercises such as this week’s. The authority to direct South Korean forces has remained with the US command since then, if the war resumes. Also Read: Israel strikes Syrian airbase; US calls strikes an ‘unnecessary escalation’ Seoul regained peacetime control of its military in 1994, but wartime control has remained with the US and reclaiming it has become a symbol of national sovereignty and one of the foremost security goals. “A strong alliance makes the foundation of security stronger, and strengthening our own capabilities increases our value and necessity as an ally,” said Lee in a cabinet meeting describing the alliance as mutually reinforcing. The response from Seoul, as per Yonhap, came after President Trump on Sunday ordered the Pentagon to "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, calling them "costly" and sending a "hostile signal" to Pyongyang. During the briefing at the Oval Office, Trump said that the North Korean leader has responded to his order to the Pentagon but did not provide details. "You see, I’m actually making it much safer. Kim Jong-un has always treated me with great respect,” he said. “I understand him. He understands me.” Trump has previously suspended major US-South Korean military exercises in pursuit of diplomacy with Kim in 2018.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung says Seoul will proceed with the wartime operational control transfer from US forces despite Trump’s call to reduce joint military drills.

South Korea to press ahead with wartime operational control transfer from US

New Delhi: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is set to visit India next week, with the main day of engagements on 20 April, in a trip expected to deepen the two countries' Special Strategic Partnership through fresh commitments on trade, investment and shipbuilding.The visit comes amid growing momentum in bilateral ties. Bilateral trade between India and South Korea stood at $21.5 billion from January to October 2025, with South Korea ranking among India's top foreign investors. Major Korean firms such as Samsung, Hyundai and POSCO have significant operations in India, particularly in automobiles, electronics and manufacturing. A CEOs' roundtable during the visit is likely to explore new business opportunities.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-music-festival-tragedy-2-college-students-dead-after-alleged-mdma-overdose-in-goregaon-1776225595482">Mumbai music festival tragedy: 2 students dead after alleged MDMA overdose</a>Shipbuilding is expected to feature prominently. New Delhi is keen to tap Seoul's world-leading expertise in the sector, especially as disruptions to global shipping routes have highlighted the strategic importance of resilient maritime supply chains. Discussions are also anticipated on semiconductors, artificial intelligence, green hydrogen, critical minerals and supply chain cooperation. Both sides have previously identified potential in emerging technologies and defence ties.The trip builds on recent high-level contacts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Lee met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada in June 2025, agreeing to collaborate on commerce, investment, technology and shipbuilding. In February 2026, the sixth India-Republic of Korea Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue took place in Seoul, co-chaired by India's Secretary (East) P Kumaran and South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo, reviewing the full spectrum of ties.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-close-to-over-trump-s-stunning-prediction-for-the-iran-war-revealed-1776214629874">'It's close to over': Trump’s stunning prediction for the Iran war REVEALED</a>Beyond economics, the relationship carries a deep cultural resonance. According to the 13th-century Korean text Samguk Yusa, Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya travelled to ancient Korea in 48 AD. She married King Kim Suro and became Queen Heo Hwang-ok. Many Koreans trace their ancestry to this union, and some scholars suggest Buddhism may have reached the peninsula partly through this maritime link. A memorial to the queen stands in Ayodhya, symbolising people-to-people bonds that stretch back two millennia.India also played a notable role in Korea's modern history, chairing a UN commission for elections after 1945 and deploying a medical unit during the Korean War that treated hundreds of thousands of patients.

The visit comes amid growing momentum in bilateral ties. Bilateral trade between India and South Korea stood at $21.5 billion from January to October 2025, with South Korea ranking among India's top foreign investors. 

New Delhi: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is set to visit India next week, with the main day of engagements on 20 April, in a trip expected to deepen the two countries' Special Strategic Partnership through fresh commitments on trade, investment and shipbuilding. The visit comes amid growing momentum in bilateral ties. Bilateral trade between India and South Korea stood at $21.5 billion from January to October 2025, with South Korea ranking among India's top foreign investors. Major Korean firms such as Samsung, Hyundai and POSCO have significant operations in India, particularly in automobiles, electronics and manufacturing. A CEOs' roundtable during the visit is likely to explore new business opportunities. Also read | Mumbai music festival tragedy: 2 students dead after alleged MDMA overdose Shipbuilding is expected to feature prominently. New Delhi is keen to tap Seoul's world-leading expertise in the sector, especially as disruptions to global shipping routes have highlighted the strategic importance of resilient maritime supply chains. Discussions are also anticipated on semiconductors, artificial intelligence, green hydrogen, critical minerals and supply chain cooperation. Both sides have previously identified potential in emerging technologies and defence ties. The trip builds on recent high-level contacts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Lee met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada in June 2025, agreeing to collaborate on commerce, investment, technology and shipbuilding. In February 2026, the sixth India-Republic of Korea Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue took place in Seoul, co-chaired by India's Secretary (East) P Kumaran and South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo, reviewing the full spectrum of ties. Also read | 'It's close to over': Trump’s stunning prediction for the Iran war REVEALED Beyond economics, the relationship carries a deep cultural resonance. According to the 13th-century Korean text Samguk Yusa, Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya travelled to ancient Korea in 48 AD. She married King Kim Suro and became Queen Heo Hwang-ok. Many Koreans trace their ancestry to this union, and some scholars suggest Buddhism may have reached the peninsula partly through this maritime link. A memorial to the queen stands in Ayodhya, symbolising people-to-people bonds that stretch back two millennia. India also played a notable role in Korea's modern history, chairing a UN commission for elections after 1945 and deploying a medical unit during the Korean War that treated hundreds of thousands of patients.

The visit comes amid growing momentum in bilateral ties. Bilateral trade between India and South Korea stood at $21.5 billion from January to October 2025, with South Korea ranking among India's top foreign investors.&nbsp;

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to visit India next week to boost trade and shipbuilding ties

At the APEC Summit, China’s Xi Jinping and South Korea’s President Lee met to rekindle diplomatic and economic ties, drawing attention as former U.S. President Donald Trump remained largely offstage.

APEC Spotlight: Xi Jinping & Lee Jae-Myung Rekindle China-South Korea Ties 

During his visit to South Korea, US President Donald Trump was presented with the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the country's highest honor, in recognition of his efforts toward peace on the Korean Peninsula. The South Korean President, Lee Jae Myung, presented Donald Trump with the prestigious decoration in Gyeongju, where Trump was attending the APEC CEO Summit.Trump expressed his deep appreciation for the award, calling it a great honor and vowing to treasure the ‘beautiful’ medal. He added that US-South Korea relations would continue to grow stronger in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;The award ceremony was part of Trump’s final stop on his Asia tour, which also included talks on trade with South Korean and Chinese leaders. A replica of a gold crown, symbolising the peaceful Silla Dynasty, was also displayed at the Gyeongju National Museum, serving as a reminder of the historical peace maintained on the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-distressing-images-row-erupts-after-punjabi-driver-involved-in-fatal-crash-in-us-brought-to-courtroom-without-turban-1761714271643">'Distressing images...': Row erupts after Punjabi driver involved in fatal crash in US brought to courtroom without turban</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">US President Donald Trump awarded South Korea’s Highest Honor, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa . . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthKorea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthKorea</a> <a href="https://t.co/XQvPEH0783">pic.twitter.com/XQvPEH0783</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1983425185819812218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a notable gesture, Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also submitted a nomination for Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, further cementing his global recognition for his peace efforts. South Korea, engaged in crucial trade negotiations with the US, has been aiming to solidify its relationship with Donald Trump. The ongoing trade talks involve reducing US tariffs on Korean goods and securing investments in the U.S. from South Korea.<h2>Trump-Kim not to meet?</h2>Trump confirmed that a scheduled meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would not take place during this trip due to timing conflicts, as President Xi Jinping of China was arriving the following day. Trump emphasised his commitment to peace on the Korean Peninsula and his positive relationship with Kim Jong Un.

President Donald Trump received South Korea’s highest award, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, for efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula

During his visit to South Korea, US President Donald Trump was presented with the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the country's highest honor, in recognition of his efforts toward peace on the Korean Peninsula. The South Korean President, Lee Jae Myung, presented Donald Trump with the prestigious decoration in Gyeongju, where Trump was attending the APEC CEO Summit. Trump expressed his deep appreciation for the award, calling it a great honor and vowing to treasure the ‘beautiful’ medal. He added that US-South Korea relations would continue to grow stronger in the future. The award ceremony was part of Trump’s final stop on his Asia tour, which also included talks on trade with South Korean and Chinese leaders. A replica of a gold crown, symbolising the peaceful Silla Dynasty, was also displayed at the Gyeongju National Museum, serving as a reminder of the historical peace maintained on the Korean Peninsula. Also Read: 'Distressing images...': Row erupts after Punjabi driver involved in fatal crash in US brought to courtroom without turban Watch the video here

President Donald Trump received South Korea’s highest award, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, for efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula

'I would like to wear it right now': Trump after receiving South Korea's highest decoration

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung meets U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office for high-stakes talks focused on regional security, economic cooperation, and North Korea. The leaders are expected to discuss strengthening the U.S.–South Korea alliance amid growing tensions in East Asia.

Trump-Lee meeting: U.S. seeks land ownership in S Korea 

South Korea has elected Lee Jae-Myung as its new president after a snap election held just six months after the country faced one of its most turbulent political periods. With 93% of the votes counted, Lee secured 48.67% of the vote. His conservative opponent, Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, conceded defeat and congratulated Lee.The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change.<h2>Lee thanks voters, promises peace and stability</h2>Speaking to supporters in Seoul, Lee expressed gratitude and promised to push for peaceful dialogue with North Korea. He also committed to preventing future military interventions.“I thank the people for their support,” he said, adding that he would work towards unifying the country and ensure “another military coup or repeat of the martial law crisis does not take place.”Lee will be sworn in as president on Wednesday and will immediately assume office.<h2>A dramatic rise: Who is Lee Jae-myung?</h2>At 61, Lee Jae-myung has had a remarkable journey. Once a child labourer, he rose to become a human rights lawyer and key political figure in South Korea. He previously served as mayor of Seongnam for eight years and governor of Gyeonggi province for three years.In 2022, Lee narrowly lost the presidential election to Yoon Suk-yeol but stayed in politics as the opposition leader. Known for his progressive vision and criticism of inequality, corruption and gender gaps, Lee has often been labelled a populist by critics.<h2>Survived a stabbing and made headlines during martial law</h2>In 2024, Lee was stabbed in the neck during a visit to Busan. The attacker approached him pretending to ask for an autograph before launching the attack. He was quickly airlifted to Seoul National University Hospital and survived the life-threatening incident.Later that year, during South Korea’s martial law crisis, Lee gained widespread attention after livestreaming himself climbing the National Assembly walls to vote against the emergency decree. Despite military cordons, he reached the building and joined other lawmakers in a historic vote to end martial law. The video of his climb went viral and cemented his image as a determined political figure.

The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change.

South Korea has elected Lee Jae-Myung as its new president after a snap election held just six months after the country faced one of its most turbulent political periods. With 93% of the votes counted, Lee secured 48.67% of the vote. His conservative opponent, Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party, conceded defeat and congratulated Lee. The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change. Lee thanks voters, promises peace and stability Speaking to supporters in Seoul, Lee expressed gratitude and promised to push for peaceful dialogue with North Korea. He also committed to preventing future military interventions. “I thank the people for their support,” he said, adding that he would work towards unifying the country and ensure “another military coup or repeat of the martial law crisis does not take place.” Lee will be sworn in as president on Wednesday and will immediately assume office. A dramatic rise: Who is Lee Jae-myung? At 61, Lee Jae-myung has had a remarkable journey. Once a child labourer, he rose to become a human rights lawyer and key political figure in South Korea. He previously served as mayor of Seongnam for eight years and governor of Gyeonggi province for three years. In 2022, Lee narrowly lost the presidential election to Yoon Suk-yeol but stayed in politics as the opposition leader. Known for his progressive vision and criticism of inequality, corruption and gender gaps, Lee has often been labelled a populist by critics. Survived a stabbing and made headlines during martial law In 2024, Lee was stabbed in the neck during a visit to Busan. The attacker approached him pretending to ask for an autograph before launching the attack. He was quickly airlifted to Seoul National University Hospital and survived the life-threatening incident. Later that year, during South Korea’s martial law crisis, Lee gained widespread attention after livestreaming himself climbing the National Assembly walls to vote against the emergency decree. Despite military cordons, he reached the building and joined other lawmakers in a historic vote to end martial law. The video of his climb went viral and cemented his image as a determined political figure.

The vote followed months of unrest and the briefest martial law in the nation’s history. With voter turnout nearing 80%, the highest in 28 years, the public delivered a strong message for political change.

From defying martial law to surviving stabbing: Who is Lee Jae-myung? New South Korean president elected after snap elections

A man who stabbed South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung in January this year was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Friday (July 5), the news agency Associated Press reported citing court officials.

A man who stabbed South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung in January this year was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Friday (July 5), the news agency Associated Press reported citing court officials. The knife-wielding man attacked Lee, who is the head of the Democratic Party, after approaching him asking for his autograph at an event in the southeastern city of Busan. Lee was stabbed in the neck. On Friday, the Busan District Court said the man was handed the prison term after being found guilty of an attempted murder and a violation of an election law. The court said that both the man and prosecutors have one week to appeal. Attack took place before election The attack happened just months before South Korea's parliamentary election in April, in which the Democratic Party and other opposition parties won a massive victory against President Yoon Suk Yeol’s People Power Party. After being detained by police, the man told investigators that he wanted to kill Lee to prevent him from becoming the country's president. The attacker's identity is not yet known but the police earlier said that he was aged 67. During police questioning, the attacker also said he was unhappy with what he thought was a lack of progress in authorities’ investigations of Lee over various corruption allegations. 'A grave challenge' The court verdict called the attack “a grave challenge” to the country’s election systems and an act that “significantly destroys social consensus and confidence on the basic liberal democratic principles,” a report by the Yonhap news agency said. Citing the verdict, the report said that the attacker had long loathed Lee because of differences of political opinions, practised stabbing his neck in advance and followed him to five public events. (With inputs from agencies)

Man who stabbed South Korean opposition leader Lee sentenced to 15 years in prison

South Korea's main opposition leader is in trouble, Lee Jae-Myung the leader of South Korea's Democratic party has been indicted on charges of bribery.

South Korea: Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-Myung indicted on bribery charges

Lee Jae-myung, the South Korean opposition leader, who was recently stabbed, was targetted by a well-prepared assailant who wanted to prevent him from becoming president. The entire incident was properly planned, police said on Wednesday (Jan 10).&nbsp;

On January 2, Lee was stabbed by a man when he was surrounded by journalists in the southern port city of Busan. The accused stormed at the politician and stabbed him on the left side of his neck with a knife.&nbsp;

As per the local reports, Lee suffered a wound to his jugular vein. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Busan, and then flown to the capital Seoul where he underwent a nearly two-hour surgery.&nbsp;

Police said they believe the man acted alone, further mentioning that he had determined to kill Lee to prevent him from running for South Korea’s presidency, which he admitted to during questioning.&nbsp;

In a televised briefing, Busan police chief Woo Cheol-Mun said that the suspect said he was unsatisfied with what he believes were authorities' failures to punish Lee over his corruption allegations.&nbsp;

Woo said the attacker left an eight-page note outlining similar intentions for his attack. Woo said that he got the outdoor knife in April and has followed Lee to five events since June.&nbsp;

"It's analysed that the suspect's subjective political belief led to the extreme crime," Woo said, further adding that police had not found other accomplices.&nbsp;

Busan police said that during police questioning, the suspect had no defence lawyer. The police have also not revealed his identity.&nbsp;

<h2>Lee discharged from the hospital</h2>

The 59-year-old politician was released Wednesday from the hospital after eight days of treatment. He also underwent a surgery. He told reporters that the attack should serve as an impetus to overhaul South Korea's notoriously confrontational politics.&nbsp;

In his first public comments since the incident, he said: "I sincerely hope this incident could serve as a milestone to end the politics of hatred and restore a politics of respect and coexistence."&nbsp;

"I myself too will reflect on my deeds and strive hard to create politics of hope," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Lee Jae-myung, the South Korean opposition leader, who was recently stabbed, was targetted by a well-prepared assailant who wanted to prevent him from becoming president.

Lee Jae-myung, the South Korean opposition leader, who was recently stabbed, was targetted by a well-prepared assailant who wanted to prevent him from becoming president. The entire incident was properly planned, police said on Wednesday (Jan 10). On January 2, Lee was stabbed by a man when he was surrounded by journalists in the southern port city of Busan. The accused stormed at the politician and stabbed him on the left side of his neck with a knife. As per the local reports, Lee suffered a wound to his jugular vein. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Busan, and then flown to the capital Seoul where he underwent a nearly two-hour surgery. Police said they believe the man acted alone, further mentioning that he had determined to kill Lee to prevent him from running for South Korea’s presidency, which he admitted to during questioning. In a televised briefing, Busan police chief Woo Cheol-Mun said that the suspect said he was unsatisfied with what he believes were authorities' failures to punish Lee over his corruption allegations. Woo said the attacker left an eight-page note outlining similar intentions for his attack. Woo said that he got the outdoor knife in April and has followed Lee to five events since June. "It's analysed that the suspect's subjective political belief led to the extreme crime," Woo said, further adding that police had not found other accomplices. Busan police said that during police questioning, the suspect had no defence lawyer. The police have also not revealed his identity. Lee discharged from the hospital The 59-year-old politician was released Wednesday from the hospital after eight days of treatment. He also underwent a surgery. He told reporters that the attack should serve as an impetus to overhaul South Korea's notoriously confrontational politics. In his first public comments since the incident, he said: "I sincerely hope this incident could serve as a milestone to end the politics of hatred and restore a politics of respect and coexistence." "I myself too will reflect on my deeds and strive hard to create politics of hope," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean opposition leader was stabbed to stall his bid for presidency: Police

South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who was stabbed in the neck earlier this week, is recovering well but needs close monitoring to avoid complications, a doctor from the Seoul National University Hospital said on Thursday (Jan 4), as reported by news agency AFP.

South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who was stabbed in the neck earlier this week, is recovering well but needs close monitoring to avoid complications, a doctor from the Seoul National University Hospital said on Thursday (Jan 4), as reported by news agency AFP. Addressing a press conference, Dr Min Seung-kee said that Lee, 59, suffered a 1.4-centimetre pierced wound that cut through his muscle. "Bouts of bleeding were found in his neck," Dr Min said, adding, "There were no signs of damage for artery, cerebral nerve, throat or airway." On Wednesday, Lee was transferred from the intensive care unit to the general ward. The stabbing incident On Tuesday, Lee Jae-myung, a leader of the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), was surrounded by journalists in the southern port city of Busan when a man pretending to be a supporter pushed through the crowd and lunged at him, stabbing him on the left side of his neck with a knife. He suffered a wound to his jugular vein. Also read: The moment South Korean oppn politician Lee Jae-myung was stabbed in neck by attacker AFP reported that the 59-year-old opposition leader was first taken to a hospital in Busan and then flown to Seoul where he underwent a nearly two-hour-long surgery. The suspect was identified as 66-year-old Kim, who was arrested at the crime scene. 'Lee could've been killed if...' The DPK said that Lee could have been killed on Tuesday if the attacker's knife had struck his artery, rather than his vein. On Thursday, a court in Busan will review an arrest warrant filed by the prosecution for Kim on the charges of attempted murder, a report by the Yonhap news agency said. The report said that the warrant would allow the police to continue to hold Kim. It added that the 66-year-old suspect had been working as a real estate agent in the South Chungcheong province. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung recovering well after being stabbed

South Korean Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung was stabbed in the neck at a news conference. The attacker has been reportedly arrested in a dramatic turn of events. Lee was attacked by an unidentified man.

South Korean Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung stabbed by unidentified attacker in Busan, arrested

BREAKING: South Korea Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung stabbed, rushed to hospital

South Korean opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-Myung was stabbed in the neck and rushed to hospital for treatment on Tuesday, months ahead of a national parliamentary election. The country has a history of political violence dating back to its founding in 1948.

South Korea's main opposition leader stabbed in the neck in Busan

In a shocking turn of events, a South Korean leader of the opposition Democratic party Lee Jae-Myung has been stabbed in the neck at a news conference in Busan City. According to the latest reports, the attacker has reportedly been arrested.

South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung stabbed in the neck

South Korea leader Lee Jae-Myung rushed to hospital after getting stabbed; President condemns attack

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was attacked on Tuesday (Jan 2) during a visit to the southeastern port city&nbsp;of Busan, the Yonhap News Agency reported.

As per reports, Lee was stabbed on the left side of his neck with a weapon.

His attacker, identified as a 1957-born&nbsp;man surnamed Kim, was subdued and arrested at the scene.&nbsp;

The man, who has confessed that he wanted to kill Lee,&nbsp;reportedly used an 18-centimeter-long knife he&nbsp;purchased online.

In a statement, NPA Commissioner General Yoon Hee-keun said he has ordered the police to establish an investigation headquarters to probe the incident.&nbsp;

The Busan Metropolitan Police Agency said in a statement it plans to charge Kim with attempted murder.

<h2>How the attack unfolded</h2>

The attack, as per Yonhap, happened at 10:27 am local time as the opposition party chief who was touring the site of a proposed airport in Busan's Gadeok Island was engaged in a&nbsp;question-and-answer session with reporters.

The assailant, who based on videos of the incident appeared to be a man in his 50s or 60s, wore a paper crown with Lee's name on it.&nbsp;

He reportedly&nbsp;approached Lee asking for an autograph, before suddenly lunging forward and attacking him, news reports said.&nbsp;

A video of the attack is going viral on social media. It shows&nbsp;the attacker lunging at Lee with his arm stretched out, and the leader grimacing and collapsing to the ground, as people in the crowd grab the assailant.

&nbsp;You can see the video here. Viewer discretion is advised.

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Footage showing the Stabbing Attack earlier against the Leader of the Democratic Party of South Korea, Lee Jae-myung while he was Speaking to a Crowd in the Southeastern City of Busan. <a href="https://t.co/uEAabsxzmX">pic.twitter.com/uEAabsxzmX</a>
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) <a href="https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1742003417411727760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The attack, as per YTN television, has left Lee with a gash of about 1 cm on his neck. While&nbsp;the wound is not life-threatening, the 59-year-old was airlifted to Seoul for surgery amid fears of additional bleeding.

Photographs of the incident show the opposition leader lying on the ground with his eyes closed, as&nbsp;people around him press a handkerchief against the bleeding wound at the side of his neck.

He remained conscious after the stabbing and was transported to a hospital.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was attacked on Tuesday (Jan 2) during a visit to the southeastern port city of Busan, the Yonhap News Agency reported.

Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, was attacked on Tuesday (Jan 2) during a visit to the southeastern port city of Busan, the Yonhap News Agency reported. As per reports, Lee was stabbed on the left side of his neck with a weapon. His attacker, identified as a 1957-born man surnamed Kim, was subdued and arrested at the scene. The man, who has confessed that he wanted to kill Lee, reportedly used an 18-centimeter-long knife he purchased online. In a statement, NPA Commissioner General Yoon Hee-keun said he has ordered the police to establish an investigation headquarters to probe the incident. The Busan Metropolitan Police Agency said in a statement it plans to charge Kim with attempted murder. How the attack unfolded The attack, as per Yonhap, happened at 10:27 am local time as the opposition party chief who was touring the site of a proposed airport in Busan's Gadeok Island was engaged in a question-and-answer session with reporters. The assailant, who based on videos of the incident appeared to be a man in his 50s or 60s, wore a paper crown with Lee's name on it. He reportedly approached Lee asking for an autograph, before suddenly lunging forward and attacking him, news reports said. A video of the attack is going viral on social media. It shows the attacker lunging at Lee with his arm stretched out, and the leader grimacing and collapsing to the ground, as people in the crowd grab the assailant. You can see the video here. Viewer discretion is advised. Footage showing the Stabbing Attack earlier against the Leader of the Democratic Party of South Korea, Lee Jae-myung while he was Speaking to a Crowd in the Southeastern City of Busan. pic.twitter.com/uEAabsxzmX — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) January 2, 2024 × The attack, as per YTN television, has left Lee with a gash of about 1 cm on his neck. While the wound is not life-threatening, the 59-year-old was airlifted to Seoul for surgery amid fears of additional bleeding. Photographs of the incident show the opposition leader lying on the ground with his eyes closed, as people around him press a handkerchief against the bleeding wound at the side of his neck. He remained conscious after the stabbing and was transported to a hospital. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch the moment South Korean oppn politician Lee Jae-myung is stabbed in neck by attacker

South Korea has started voting for a presidential election in the shadow of the pandemic, as up to a million people with COVID-19 are expected to cast ballots during a spike driving one of the world's highest caseloads.

Voters are choosing a replacement for liberal President Moon Jae-in, who cannot run for re-election due to term limits. Moon's ruling party is represented by Lee Jae-myung.

Renewed tensions between Washington and Pyongyang have been a major setback for Moon, a dovish liberal and son of northern war refugees who staked his single presidential term on his ambitions for inter-Korean rapprochement.

A 15-second video clip in which Lee did a spoof of a hair-loss commercial sparked explosive reaction on social media as well as complaints from some experts and rival candidates that he was pushing a populist agenda.

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He courted younger voters in January by calling for legalising the estimated $1 billion tattoo industry, which operates underground because South Korean law allows only doctors to perform the procedure.

Lee is especially targeting young people who joined candlelight vigils leading up to the 2017 impeachment and ouster of conservative then-president Park Geun-hye.

South Korean presidential candidate Yoon Suk-yeol got a boost when a rival dropped out, but if the conservative former prosecutor wins next week, it may also be thanks to "deepfake" avatars and viral short videos.

Opposition leader Yoon and the top liberal contender have gone to unusual lengths in the nation's tradition-bound politics to shed the image of grumpy old men, courting young voters who could prove decisive in what has been a close race.&nbsp;

The race has focussed on seeking a leader to clean up polarised politics and corruption, and tackle the runaway housing prices and deepening inequality that have dogged Asia's fourth-largest economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-missiles-to-scandals-issues-at-stake-in-south-koreas-presidential-election-453520">Also see |&nbsp;From missiles to scandals: Issues at stake in South Korea's presidential election</a>

Analysts believe that what will propel the winner towards victory will not be his populist campaign promises or North Korea policy but what the papers have dubbed a "cycle of revenge" in South Korea's famously adversarial politics.

"This election is a battle between two opposite forces,&nbsp;the progressives and conservatives," said political analyst Park Sang-byoung.

South Korean presidents are allowed by law to serve a single five year term, and every living former president has been investigated and jailed for corruption after leaving office.

Outgoing President Moon Jae-in himself swept to power in 2017 after his disgraced predecessor Park Geun-hye was impeached over an influence-peddling scandal that also put a Samsung heir behind bars.

Now, Park's conservatives are eager for revenge. Ironically, their candidate Yoon was chief prosecutor under Moon and pursued Park when she was impeached,&nbsp;an experience that boosted his profile and popularity and pushed him to enter politics.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-divided-over-candidates-proposal-of-allowing-health-insurance-to-cover-hair-loss-443214">Also read |&nbsp;South Korea divided over candidate's proposal of allowing health insurance to cover hair loss</a>

Yoon has encouraged people with COVID or isolating to vote, saying they could amount to millions out of more than 40 million eligible voters.

While the pandemic did not prevent big campaign rallies, leading presidential runners have run "contact-free" campaigns. Lee met supporters at a drive-in movie theatre.

Moon is spending his last days in office grappling with an unprecedented wave in coronavirus infections driven by fast-moving Omicron variant, which has stretched worn-out health workers.

The surge has come after a delta-driven spread that spiked hospitalisations and deaths in December and early January, which erased the country’s earlier epidemiological gains Moon had touted as a major accomplishment.

South Korea held a national election in 2020 and regional polls last year, with infected people required to mail in their ballots or use special polling stations at hospitals. Daily COVID infections were in the hundreds at most at that time. This week they topped 200,000.

South Korean politics has seen a "deepening division" in recent years, with elections more focused on party rivalry than policy, analyst Yoo Jung-hoon said.

"Many conservatives still hold a grudge over the impeachment of Park Geun-hye," he said.

Yoon is appealing to these disgruntled voters, offering a chance at "revenge" for Park's ousting -- even going so far as to threaten to investigate Moon for unspecified "irregularities".&nbsp;

"We should do it," Yoon said last month, referring to prosecuting Moon and his administration.

His comments earned a rare rebuke from the presidential Blue House and the ruling Democratic party's candidate Lee said they indicated his rival was not fit to lead the nation.

But analysts say it's just political business as usual in Seoul.

"The Moon administration has prosecuted many former officials in the name of rooting out deep-rooted corruption," Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University.

"I expect the same standard to be applied under the Yoon government should wrongdoings be found," he said.

Yoon's wife in January gave an unwitting insight into the realpolitik to come, claiming enemies and critics would be prosecuted if her husband won because that's "the nature of power," according to taped comments released after a court battle.

Polls show that voters' top concerns this election cycle are skyrocketing house prices in the capital Seoul, stagnant growth, and stubborn youth unemployment,&nbsp;but campaigning has been dominated by mud-slinging.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

South Korea has started voting for a presidential election in the shadow of the pandemic, as up to a million people with COVID-19 are expected to cast ballots during a spike driving one of the world's highest caseloads.

South Korea has started voting for a presidential election in the shadow of the pandemic, as up to a million people with COVID-19 are expected to cast ballots during a spike driving one of the world's highest caseloads. Voters are choosing a replacement for liberal President Moon Jae-in, who cannot run for re-election due to term limits. Moon's ruling party is represented by Lee Jae-myung. Renewed tensions between Washington and Pyongyang have been a major setback for Moon, a dovish liberal and son of northern war refugees who staked his single presidential term on his ambitions for inter-Korean rapprochement. A 15-second video clip in which Lee did a spoof of a hair-loss commercial sparked explosive reaction on social media as well as complaints from some experts and rival candidates that he was pushing a populist agenda. He courted younger voters in January by calling for legalising the estimated $1 billion tattoo industry, which operates underground because South Korean law allows only doctors to perform the procedure. Lee is especially targeting young people who joined candlelight vigils leading up to the 2017 impeachment and ouster of conservative then-president Park Geun-hye. South Korean presidential candidate Yoon Suk-yeol got a boost when a rival dropped out, but if the conservative former prosecutor wins next week, it may also be thanks to "deepfake" avatars and viral short videos. Opposition leader Yoon and the top liberal contender have gone to unusual lengths in the nation's tradition-bound politics to shed the image of grumpy old men, courting young voters who could prove decisive in what has been a close race. The race has focussed on seeking a leader to clean up polarised politics and corruption, and tackle the runaway housing prices and deepening inequality that have dogged Asia's fourth-largest economy. Also see | From missiles to scandals: Issues at stake in South Korea's presidential election Analysts believe that what will propel the winner towards victory will not be his populist campaign promises or North Korea policy but what the papers have dubbed a "cycle of revenge" in South Korea's famously adversarial politics. "This election is a battle between two opposite forces, the progressives and conservatives," said political analyst Park Sang-byoung. South Korean presidents are allowed by law to serve a single five year term, and every living former president has been investigated and jailed for corruption after leaving office. Outgoing President Moon Jae-in himself swept to power in 2017 after his disgraced predecessor Park Geun-hye was impeached over an influence-peddling scandal that also put a Samsung heir behind bars. Now, Park's conservatives are eager for revenge. Ironically, their candidate Yoon was chief prosecutor under Moon and pursued Park when she was impeached, an experience that boosted his profile and popularity and pushed him to enter politics. Also read | South Korea divided over candidate's proposal of allowing health insurance to cover hair loss Yoon has encouraged people with COVID or isolating to vote, saying they could amount to millions out of more than 40 million eligible voters. While the pandemic did not prevent big campaign rallies, leading presidential runners have run "contact-free" campaigns. Lee met supporters at a drive-in movie theatre. Moon is spending his last days in office grappling with an unprecedented wave in coronavirus infections driven by fast-moving Omicron variant, which has stretched worn-out health workers. The surge has come after a delta-driven spread that spiked hospitalisations and deaths in December and early January, which erased the country’s earlier epidemiological gains Moon had touted as a major accomplishment. South Korea held a national election in 2020 and regional polls last year, with infected people required to mail in their ballots or use special polling stations at hospitals. Daily COVID infections were in the hundreds at most at that time. This week they topped 200,000. South Korean politics has seen a "deepening division" in recent years, with elections more focused on party rivalry than policy, analyst Yoo Jung-hoon said. "Many conservatives still hold a grudge over the impeachment of Park Geun-hye," he said. Yoon is appealing to these disgruntled voters, offering a chance at "revenge" for Park's ousting -- even going so far as to threaten to investigate Moon for unspecified "irregularities". "We should do it," Yoon said last month, referring to prosecuting Moon and his administration. His comments earned a rare rebuke from the presidential Blue House and the ruling Democratic party's candidate Lee said they indicated his rival was not fit to lead the nation. But analysts say it's just political business as usual in Seoul. "The Moon administration has prosecuted many former officials in the name of rooting out deep-rooted corruption," Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University. "I expect the same standard to be applied under the Yoon government should wrongdoings be found," he said. Yoon's wife in January gave an unwitting insight into the realpolitik to come, claiming enemies and critics would be prosecuted if her husband won because that's "the nature of power," according to taped comments released after a court battle. Polls show that voters' top concerns this election cycle are skyrocketing house prices in the capital Seoul, stagnant growth, and stubborn youth unemployment, but campaigning has been dominated by mud-slinging. (With inputs from agencies)

What is 'cycle of revenge' in South Korea's famously adversarial politics?

A proposal by South Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung of allowing public healthcare insurance to cover hair loss treatment has received mixed reactions.

Fanning both cheers from some voters and criticism over his populist agenda, it has ignited a hairy debate in the country.

Lee Jae-myung, the flag bearer of the Democratic Party, made that pledge, saying almost 10 million people suffer from hair loss but many of them order medicines from overseas or resort to prostate drugs as an alternative due to high treatment costs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-calls-norths-recent-hypersonic-missile-launch-claim-an-exaggeration-443060" hreflang="en">South Korea calls North’s recent hypersonic missile launch claim an 'exaggeration'</a>

Since his proposal was disclosed earlier this week, hair loss has emerged as a hot-button topic ahead of March’s presidential vote in South Korea, where previous elections have focused on North Korea’s nuclear program, relations with the US, scandals, and economic problems.

Lee Jae-myung isn’t bald. But he is enjoying the support of many bald voters over his push for government payments for hair loss treatments.

Online communities for bald people are flooded with messages supporting his proposal.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-launch-china-urges-caution-japan-calls-it-regrettable-442436" hreflang="en">North Korean launch: China urges caution, Japan calls it regrettable</a>

"Let's implant Lee Jae-myung for us," a user wrote, replying to a post of Lee's slogans on hair loss uploaded in an online hair loss community.

There is also strong criticism that it’s just a populism-driven campaign pledge by Lee, the governing party candidate, to win votes.

Lee Sang-ee, a professor at Jeju National University's medical school, said the national health insurance might falter if it spends hundreds of billions of won to cover hair loss, when it is designed to help those suffering from serious ailments.

Currently, hair loss related to aging and hereditary factors is not covered by the government-run insurance program. Hair loss treatments are only supported if the loss is caused by certain diseases.

(With inputs from agencies)

A proposal by South Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung of allowing public healthcare insurance to cover hair loss treatment has received mixed reactions.

A proposal by South Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung of allowing public healthcare insurance to cover hair loss treatment has received mixed reactions. Fanning both cheers from some voters and criticism over his populist agenda, it has ignited a hairy debate in the country. Lee Jae-myung, the flag bearer of the Democratic Party, made that pledge, saying almost 10 million people suffer from hair loss but many of them order medicines from overseas or resort to prostate drugs as an alternative due to high treatment costs. Also read | South Korea calls North’s recent hypersonic missile launch claim an 'exaggeration' Since his proposal was disclosed earlier this week, hair loss has emerged as a hot-button topic ahead of March’s presidential vote in South Korea, where previous elections have focused on North Korea’s nuclear program, relations with the US, scandals, and economic problems. Lee Jae-myung isn’t bald. But he is enjoying the support of many bald voters over his push for government payments for hair loss treatments. Online communities for bald people are flooded with messages supporting his proposal. Also Read: North Korean launch: China urges caution, Japan calls it regrettable "Let's implant Lee Jae-myung for us," a user wrote, replying to a post of Lee's slogans on hair loss uploaded in an online hair loss community. There is also strong criticism that it’s just a populism-driven campaign pledge by Lee, the governing party candidate, to win votes. Lee Sang-ee, a professor at Jeju National University's medical school, said the national health insurance might falter if it spends hundreds of billions of won to cover hair loss, when it is designed to help those suffering from serious ailments. Currently, hair loss related to aging and hereditary factors is not covered by the government-run insurance program. Hair loss treatments are only supported if the loss is caused by certain diseases. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea divided over candidate's proposal of allowing health insurance to cover hair loss

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