US ambassador to South Korea Mark Lippert. (Photo via AP)
A South Korean man who slashed US ambassador Mark Lippert in the face with a knife was sentenced to 12 years in prison on Friday after being found guilty of attempted murder.Kim Ki-jong, 55, who attacked Lippert in March at a forum discussing Korean reunification, was also found guilty of assaulting a foreign envoy and obstruction, according to court spokesman Joon Young Maeng. He was acquitted of another charge of violating the National Security Act.Lippert suffered a deep gash to his face that required 80 stitches, along with injuries to his wrist. He was in the hospital for five days.
Kim has said the attack was a protest against joint military drills being conducted by US and South Korean troops.Prosecutors last week sought a 15-year prison term for Kim, whose seven trips to North Korea had raised questions about a possible Pyongyang connection. The North's official media said the attack was "deserved punishment" for Lippert, but denied any role in it. Kim has denied any connections to the North.South Korea and major ally the United States hold regular joint military exercises, which North Korea condemns as preparations for war.The attack prompted an outpouring of public support in South Korea for Lippert, whose outgoing style has made him popular since he took up his post in November.Follow VICE News on Twitter: @ViceNews
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