President Lee Jae Myung on April 26 called political violence "a grave threat to democracy," referring to the shooting at a White House Correspondents' Association dinner in Washington where U.S. President Donald Trump was present. Shown is President Lee on April 19 speaking at a ceremony marking the April 19 Revolution of 1960 at the National April 19th Democratic Cemetery in Seoul's Gangbuk-gu District. (Cheong Wa Dae)

By Xu Aiying

President Lee Jae Myung on April 26 blasted the shooting at a dinner for the White House Correspondents' Association in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump attending, saying, "Political violence is a grave threat that undermines the very foundation of democracy and can never be justified under any circumstances."

On his X account in both Korean and English, he wrote, "It is especially regrettable that such an incident occurred at an event meant to reaffirm the role of the press and freedom of speech."

"I am relieved to hear that President Donald Trump and the First Lady, as well as all those present, are safe. I offer my deepest sympathies to the American people," he added. "The Government of the Republic of Korea firmly opposes all forms of violence and extremism that erode the values of democracy and the rule of law."

On April 25, a man rushed through a security checkpoint and opened fire at the dinner held at the hotel Washington Hilton. President Trump, his wife and key attendees immediately evacuated after the gunshots were heard.

A Secret Service agent on duty at the venue was shot while subduing the shooter, but reportedly sustained no serious injuries as he was wearing a bulletproof vest. The suspect was arrested at the scene.

xuaiy@korea.kr