US ambassador says doing "well and in great spirits" after knife 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, 42, underwent surgery requiring 80 stitches to close a gash on his face after the attacker slashed him with a fruit knife.

Doing well&in great spirits! Robyn, Sejun, Grigsby & I - deeply moved by the support! Will be back ASAP to advance US-ROK alliance! 같이 갑시다!

— Mark Lippert (@mwlippert) March 5, 2015