Tensions escalated between South Korea and Israel after controversial remarks by President Lee Jae Myung regarding a viral social media video.
President Lee questioned the authenticity of footage allegedly showing Israeli soldiers abusing a Palestinian child. He stated on social media platform X that the matter required verification and possible action if proven true.
The video, widely circulated online, could not be independently verified by Agence France-Presse. Reports suggest it may be linked to older footage from the West Bank filmed two years ago.
That earlier footage reportedly showed an Israeli soldier pushing the body of a dead adult man off a rooftop during operations in the occupied territory, which has remained under Israeli control since 1967.
Israel’s foreign ministry responded strongly, stating the incident had already been investigated. It accused President Lee of reviving outdated claims and relying on misleading information circulating online.
The ministry further alleged that the source of the viral claim was known for spreading disinformation. It rejected the portrayal of the video as a recent event, calling the accusations inaccurate.
In response, South Korea’s foreign ministry attempted to ease tensions. Officials clarified that Lee’s remarks were intended to highlight universal human rights concerns rather than target any specific country.
However, President Lee later issued another statement criticizing Israel’s reaction. He expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of reflection on global concerns regarding human rights and international law.
Despite the diplomatic friction, South Korea continues to maintain a balanced stance in Middle Eastern affairs. The country remains an ally of the United States while avoiding direct alignment in regional conflicts.
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