'President Lee's Gadeokdo Attack Incident' Designated as Terrorism... Prime Minister Kim Calls for Thorough Investigation (Update)

First Case Since Enactment of the Anti-Terrorism Act in 2016

On January 20, the government officially designated the so-called 'Gadeokdo Attack Incident,' which occurred last January when President Lee Jaemyung was the leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, as an 'official act of terrorism.' This marks the first time the government has designated an incident as terrorism since the enactment of the Anti-Terrorism Act in 2016.

Yonhap News Agency

Prime Minister Kim Minseok convened the 22nd National Counter-Terrorism Policy Committee at the Government Complex Seoul that afternoon, where this decision was reviewed and approved.

In his opening remarks, Prime Minister Kim referenced the incident, stating, "Such an event should never occur in the Republic of Korea, the nation of K-democracy." He added, "Since liberation, Korea has experienced the shocking deaths of political leaders due to acts of terrorism. For our country, terrorism is an issue that must be eradicated by mobilizing all national vigilance." He further emphasized, "Going forward, the government will comprehensively review and strengthen the counter-terrorism system to ensure a safe Korea not only for our citizens but also against any terrorism that threatens K-democracy."

With the Gadeokdo Attack Incident now designated as an act of terrorism, Prime Minister Kim determined that a thorough investigation is necessary and requested the reactivation of the Joint Counter-Terrorism Investigation Team, which includes the National Intelligence Service and the National Police Agency. In addition, the government plans to implement measures to prevent similar incidents, such as strengthening personal protection for key figures during election periods. The government will also conduct a comprehensive review and overhaul of relevant laws and systems, including the Anti-Terrorism Act.

Meanwhile, at the meeting, in addition to the attack on President Lee, the '2026 National Counter-Terrorism Activity Promotion Plan' was deliberated and approved. Prime Minister Kim was briefed on plans to launch a public-private counter-terrorism task force, designate key national events for 2026-2027, and establish basic plans for counter-terrorism safety activities at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.