The Ministry of Justice approved on Wednesday the prosecution's request to try a U.S. serviceman in a local court for allegedly stabbing a South Korean civilian in Seoul last month.

The decision clears the way for South Korean prosecutors to indict Private John C. Humphreys of the 8th United States Army on charges of attempted murder.

Under the Status of Forces Agreement that governs American troops stationed in South Korea, the host nation has primary jurisdiction over U.S. soldiers accused of committing serious crimes while off duty.

Humphreys allegedly stabbed the South Korean man while he was trying to stop the drunken soldier from stomping on a taxi. Local police detained the soldier and later handed him over to U.S. military authorities.

The victim is reportedly recuperating after surgery.

South Korean authorities plan to request the U.S. military authorities to hand over the American GI for indictment.