South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and U.S. President Donald Trump shake hands ahead of a summit at Gyeongju National Museum in North Gyeongsang Province on Oct. 29, 2025. / Courtesy of the presidential office. Redistribution and DB prohibited

President Lee Jae-myung said on April 26 he was “deeply shocked” by a shooting at the White House, adding he was relieved that U.S. President Donald Trump and others at the scene were unharmed and extended his condolences to the American people.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) later in the day, Lee said, “I cannot hide my shock at the violent incident that occurred during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner,” adding, “It is especially regrettable that such an घटना occurred at an event meant to affirm communication with the press and freedom of expression.”

He added, “Political violence is a serious threat that undermines the foundation of democracy and can never be justified for any reason,” stressing that “the South Korean government firmly opposes all forms of violence and extremism that damage the values of democracy and the rule of law.”

On April 25, a shooting occurred as Trump attended a White House Correspondents’ Dinner event, forcing an emergency evacuation. Trump and the first lady, along with members of his second administration, were unharmed, and the suspect, believed to be from California, was arrested at the scene.

Following the incident, Trump told reporters in a briefing room at the White House that “a man armed with multiple weapons rushed toward a security checkpoint,” adding that “Secret Service agents quickly subdued him.”

President Lee Jae-myung said on April 26 he was “deeply shocked” by a shooting at the Whit …

South Korea’s Lee says “deeply shocked” by White House shooting, relieved Trump unharmed