China expresses concern over reports of South Korean journalist attack

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has expressed concern over reports that a South Korean photojournalist was assaulted by Chinese security guards during an event attended by visiting South Korean President Moon Jae-in in Beijing.

“If someone did get hurt, we are concerned about that. What I know at this stage is that it occurred at an event organized by the South Korean side as part of President Moon Jae-in's visit in China,” spokesperson Lu Kang said on Thursday.

“We are paying a lot of attention and are trying to gather more information from the organizers.”

“We believe we share the same goal here which is to ensure the success of this visit,” Lu added.

According to South Korean news agency Yonhap , a group of 14 journalists were prevented from following Moon by Chinese guards during a trade event involving South Korean firms and prospective Chinese buyers in Beijing.

One of the journalists was reportedly taken outside the venue by more than a dozen security guards who then beat him.

He was later sent to hospital for treatment.

(CGTN)