U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Mark Lippert was assaulted in Seoul this morning while giving a speech, the State Department has said.

“We can confirm that US Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Mark Lippert was assaulted on Thursday morning in Seoul while giving a speech. We strongly condemn this act of violence,” State Department deputy Spokesperson Marie Harf said.

Following the incident, Lippert, 42, was rushed to a nearby hospital.

“The Ambassador is being treated at a local hospital. His injuries are not life threatening. Embassy Seoul is coordinating with local law enforcement authorities,” Harf said.

The United States and South Korea have recently launched annual joint military exercises.
(PTI)