In the lead-up to the Chungbuk gubernatorial race, candidates from the Democratic Party are embroiled in a heated dispute over Shin Yong-han's use of his past political experience. Shin has defended his mention of a position held during the Park Geun-hye administration, arguing that it was previously acknowledged without issue when he was recruited as a talent by then-leader Lee Jae-myung in February 2024. However, rival candidates, including Roh Young-min, Song Gi-seob, and Han Beom-deok, have accused him of disrespecting party members by relying on a controversial background.

On the afternoon of the 26th, these three candidates held a joint press conference at the Chungbuk Provincial Government press room, where they released a statement entitled 'Is the Park Geun-hye regime’s legacy the spirit of the Democratic Party?'. They criticized Shin for using his title of 'Chairman of the Youth Committee directly under the former president' during internal polls for party nominations, a role they deem inappropriate given its association with the impeached Park Geun-hye's tenure. They described his participation in the Democratic Party primary as contradictory, arguing he should not benefit from an administration widely criticized and ultimately ousted for corruption.

In response to the barrage of criticism, Shin dismissed the accusations as negative campaigning, asserting that his recognition within the party was legitimized by his recruitment under Lee Jae-myung, who praised his potential contribution to expanding the party's reach. He emphasized his commitment to the Democratic Party and his avoidance of participating in negative campaigning, although he expressed readiness to defend himself if attacks exceed reasonable bounds. This dispute illustrates the internal tensions within the Democratic Party as factional lines are drawn ahead of the governorship races.