The political activist who attacked Mark Lippert, the United States Ambassador to South Korea, reportedly acted alone and is known to have a history of violence.

Kim Ki-jong, the attacker, reportedly did not work with anyone else when he slashed the face of Lippert with a 10-inch knife that he brought from his home. Lippert was at a breakfast meeting when the attack happened.

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According to police officials, he already received a two-year prison term when he attacked the Japanese ambassador to South Korea back in 2010. However, the term was suspended.

Kim reportedly attacked Lippert because he wanted to protest the military joint exercises between the U.S. and South Korea. Echoing the fear of other South Koreans, he said a reconciliation with North Korea will be more difficult to achieve if this continues.

A video from a South Korean news agency called Yonhap Television shows the aftermath of the scene when Kim was being subdued by officials. The footage also shows Lippert being escorted away from the area and was possibly taken to the hospital as blood streamed down from his face.

According to John Deluri, a professor from Yonsei University, Kim's attack should not be interpreted as an indication that a larger public in South Korea express the same feeling as Kim.

Lippert was reportedly in a stable condition on Thursday after he underwent surgery, according to American Embassy spokesman Robert W. Ogburn. Lippert's cut was four inches long and required a total of 80 stitches.

The American diplomat also acquired stab wounds on his left arm and hand. Lippert told the South Korean public via his Twitter account that he is doing well and is in great spirits.

Lippert is quite popular among South Koreans as he has been interacting with them via social networking sties and his blog. The overwhelming number of get well soon wishes from the public does not come as a surprise.

However, the attack on Lippert raised concerns regarding the security of important people. In the wake of this, the South Korean government released a statement saying people who failed to protect the U.S. ambassador will be punished.

TagsMark Lippert, U.S. ambassador, North Korea, Kim Ki-jong, knife attack