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U.S. Ambassador attacked in South Korea

Posted at 6:48 PM, Mar 04, 2015
and last updated 2015-03-04 18:57:40-05

(CNN) — U.S. ambassador to South Korea Mark Lippert was attacked in Seoul, possibly by more than one person, according to U.S. government sources in the U.S. and South Korea.

Lippert was injured by a small razor blade, according to Seoul police. His injuries are not life threatening, according to Marie Harf, a State Department spokeswoman.

According to South Korea’s YTN news channel, Lippert was about to deliver a speech at a breakfast being held at Sejong Hall in Seoul. The report says nothing specific about the attack, only that yelling was heard and then the bloodied ambassador was taken to hospital.

The YTN report also says a suspect identified by last name “Kim” was detained. The report says Ambassador Lippert was injured around his face and on his arm.

An official with South Korean Police Agency said Lippert was attacked by a small razor blade. He received injuries on his right cheek and hand. He is being treated.

The suspect — believed to be in his 50s — is detained and currently under investigation.

The incident happened at 5.42 p.m. ET.