Slashed ambassador leaves hospital

onnaedo

March 10, 2015 11:02 AM

Before leaving the hospital, Lippert told reporters that that the US mission to be "open and friendly" would not change.

The United States ambassador to South Korea who was attacked by a knife-wielding activist last week has left the hospital.

Mark Lippert had been slashed in the face by Kim Ki-jong after a breakfast meeting. The attack left him needing 80 stitches.

He also assured reporters that he felt good and confident about returning to work,

"I feel pretty darn good, all things considered. I mean it was obviously a scary incident, But I'm walking, talking, holding my baby, hugging my wife, so I just feel really good."

Attacker, Km, who was tackled at the scene has since denied charges of attempted murder.

The attack prompted rallies and prayer sessions in support of Mr Lippert and US-South Korea relations. South Korean President Park Geun-hye visited him in hospital on Monday.

Meanwhile police have not established a motive for Kim's action, but said he shouted after the attack that he opposed ongoing military drills being conducted by the US and South Korea, calling for reunification with North Korea.

onnaedo