Sentence for stabbing of South Korean opposition leader

The Busan District Court sentenced the defendant to 15 years in prison for "attempted murder and violation of election laws."

The court stated that the crime not only attempted to take the life of leader Lee but also interfered with election freedom, undermining social harmony and trust.

The court revealed that the attack was meticulously planned over nine months because of the defendant's differing political views.

The court characterized the attack as an "attempt to undermine the electoral system and representative democracy," emphasizing that such actions cannot be justified.

On January 2, in Busan's Gadeok Island, the attacker approached Lee under the pretense of getting an autograph while Lee was answering questions from the press at a construction site visit. The attacker then injured Lee in the neck with a sharp object.

Lee was rushed to the hospital, and it was later announced that his life was not in danger.

Lee was discharged from the hospital on January 10.

The attacker, who was apprehended at the scene, confessed to planning to kill Lee.

Social media footage showed that the suspect had previously attended an event in Busan where Lee was present.