1. The Government of the Republic of Korea cannot but be appalled and deems it deeply regrettable that a harmful act was committed against US Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Mark Lippert on the morning of March 5.

2. Such harmful acts against diplomatic envoys cannot be tolerated under any circumstances. In particular, the Government of the Republic of Korea takes it very seriously that such an act was committed against the Ambassador from the US, the ROK’s most important ally.

3. The Government of the Republic of Korea will conduct a thorough investigation into the case and take stern measures based on its outcome.

4. Going forward, the Government of the Republic of Korea will make more all-out efforts to better ensure the safety of the diplomats to the ROK as well as their missions and other facilities.

5. The Government of the Republic of Korea hopes for the swift recovery of Ambassador Mark Lippert and extends its deepest consolation to his family. 


                Spokesperson and Deputy Minister for Public Relations of MOFA

* unofficial translation