Former DPK chief assaulter found dead in apparent prison suicide

In this file photo, a Youtuber who attacked ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) Chairman Song Young-gil is escorted by police officers at Seodaemun Police Station, March 16. Yonhap

A Youtuber who was arrested for attacking former ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) Chairman Song Young-gil with a hammer was found dead in an apparent suicide in a Seoul prison Sunday, according to correctional authorities.

The 70-year-old, only identified by his last name Pyo, was found dead at around 3 a.m. by a fellow inmate at the Seoul Nambu Detention Center, prison officials said. He was sent to a hospital but was pronounced dead.

Prosecutors are considering an autopsy to figure out the exact cause of death, as Pyo reportedly left behind a note, officials noted.

Pyo struck Song's head several times with a hammer while he was campaigning in Seoul's Sinchon area, March 7, three days before the presidential election, causing him injuries that required stitches.

The man was known to have opposed Korea-U.S. military exercises on his Youtube channel and targeted Song after he said last year the joint drills should be conducted as planned. (Yonhap)