US ambassador doing 'well and in great spirits' after attack

Seoul - US Ambassador Mark Lippert said he was well and in great spirits as he recovered from surgery to treat wounds on his face and arm suffered in a knife attack early on Thursday at an event in central Seoul.

"Doing well and in great spirits! Robyn, Sejun, Grigsby and I - deeply moved by the support!" Lippert tweeted, referring respectively to his wife, newborn son, and dog. "Will be back ASAP to advance US-ROK alliance!"

Lippert, aged 42, underwent surgery requiring 80 stitches to close a gash on his face after the attacker slashed him with a fruit knife.