South Korea Charges Suspect in U.S. Ambassador Attack with Attempted Murder

South Korea formally charged a suspect this week with attempted murder after he attacked U.S. Ambassador Mark Lippert at an event in Seoul last month.

An official with the capital's prosecution office confirmed to Reuters this week that 55-year-old Kim Ki-jong had been charged with attempted murder, obstruction of duty and assault of a foreign envoy in relation to the March 5 attack.

Lippert, who serves as U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, was preparing to give a lecture at Seoul's performing arts center when Kim Ki-jong reportedly attacked him with a 10-inch long knife, inflicting deep gashes on Lippert's cheek and wrist while shouting that South and North Korea should be reunited.

The U.S. Ambassador was rushed to the hospital where he spent five days and received 80 stitches.

This week, Lippert wrote his first blog post since leaving the hospital on March 10, saying that the attack has only strengthened the relationship between the U.S. and South Korea.

"This incident has only strengthened our belief in the unbreakable bond that exists between the United States and the Republic of Korea," he wrote.

"It has meant a great deal to me, Robyn, Sejun, and Grigsby to feel the warmth and caring from the community here in Korea," Lippert added, referring to his wife, child, and pet dog.

According to NBC News, Kim Ki-jong could face life in jail or even the death penalty if found guilty of attempted murder.

Since leaving the hospital, Lippert has returned to work as U.S. Ambassador to South Korea.