Police investigating allegations of "illegal campaigning" surrounding Chungbuk Governor Shin Yong-han conducted a raid on the governor's office today (the 28th).

According to police and the North Chungcheong Provincial Government, the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crime Investigation Unit of the Chungbuk Provincial Police Agency dispatched investigators to the governor's office at the provincial government building this afternoon to secure relevant materials, including a mobile phone.

While the exact reason for the search and seizure has not been disclosed, it is believed to be related to the suspicions of "illegal campaigning" that emerged during the June 3 local elections.

Previously, Governor Shin was reported to the police over allegations that he used burner phones to send out mass support-seeking text messages during the primary process ahead of the local elections, and that the salaries of his aides were paid through a company owned by a member of his election camp.

A police official stated, "As this is an ongoing investigation, we cannot confirm specific details."

In response to the police search, Governor Shin released a statement saying, "I have never engaged in any illegal acts, and the facts will be clearly revealed through the police investigation."

He added, "I have actively cooperated with the police investigation so far and will continue to faithfully participate moving forward," and noted, "Furthermore, key provincial issues will be pushed forward without the slightest wavering, just as they have been."

(Photo: Yonhap News)