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S. Koreans show outpouring of support for injured US ambassador

March 5, 2015

South Koreans hold candles for a quick recovery of injured U.S. Ambassador Mark Lippert at downtown of Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, March 5, 2015. U.S. Ambassador Mark Lippert was in stable condition after a man screaming demands for a unified North and South Korea slashed him on the face and wrist with a knife, South Korean police and U.S. officials said Thursday. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

By Kim Bo-eun

U.S. Ambassador to Korea Mark Lippert was the subject of an outpouring of support and concern after he was attacked by a knife-wielding radical activist.

Lippert’s official blog (lippertsinkorea.blogspot.com) was filled with numerous messages of support and concern.

“As a Korean, I send my deepest condolences to you and your family. I pray that you will get well soon. Please continue to work hard as the U.S. ambassador and love our country,” a user named Kim Byeong-chul posted.

Lee Min-hee said, “I’m terribly sorry for what happened to you this morning. Considering how you have been friendly and loving to Korea, it is more heartbreaking to hear that you got attacked. Hope you get well soon.”

“I was very shocked to hear the news. I wonder how shocked you must have been and I feel deeply sorry. But there are many Koreans here who support you. There are people who are waiting for you to get up again. I sincerely wish for you to get well soon,” Kim So-yeon wrote.

Others tried to make it understood that the assailant’s act was an unfortunate and isolated event.

A user named Choi Yong-hoon said, “I wish (the ambassador) a speedy recovery. I am concerned that (the ambassador) will develop a negative perception of Koreans due to a certain few who have distorted minds. In Korea, the country you love, there are many Koreans that support you.”

“I was horrified to hear the news this morning. I feel so shameful about what the psychopath has done. Please get well soon, Ambassador Lippert. We love you and your family so much!” an anonymous user posted.

Users also left remarks condemning the attack.

Ko Kwang-nam wrote, “I hope you are treated well and recover your health. The perpetrator will be heavily punished. God bless you & be healthy.”

“I hope you get well soon. I am sorry as a Korean. Many Koreans are saddened by the incident and are condemning the act of terror. I sincerely hope you fully recover,” an anonymous writer posted.

Lippert was recovering after surgery Thursday at Yonsei University Severance Hospital to treat the wounds he sustained when he was stabbed and cut by a pro-North Korean assailant.