The American ambassador to South Korea has been rushed to the hospital after an apparent attack Thursday, the State Department confirmed.
{mosads}Reports say that Mark Lippert was bleeding heavily after he was attacked with a razor blade at a morning lecture in Seoul. But his injuries are not life-threatening, State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said in a statement.
“We strongly condemn this act of violence. The Ambassador is being treated at a local hospital. His injuries are not life threatening,” she said.
“Embassy Seoul is coordinating with local law enforcement authorities. We do not have any additional details to share at this time.”
The attacker reportedly yelled about reuinifying North and South Korea before he attacked Lippert. He is now under arrest.
Lippert has been the ambassador to South Korea since 2014 and had previously worked as President Obama’s foreign policy advisor while he served in the Senate. He later advised Obama’s campaign and transition team on foreign policy.
He also served as chief of staff to former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.
–Updated at 7:14 p.m.