CHA EUN WOO
While CHA EUN WOO is currently completing his military service, he breaks his silence to personally respond to accusations of tax evasion that are shaking his spotless image.
The shockwave hit the Korean entertainment industry a few days ago. CHA EUN WOO, an iconic member of the group ASTRO and a world-renowned actor, finds himself at the center of a large-scale financial dispute. South Korean tax authorities are demanding a record sum of 20 billion won (approximately 14 million euros) following an in-depth audit of his income.
The case is based on irregularities related to the payment of his taxes over the past several years. According to reports, the tax administration pointed to questionable accounting management. What particularly fueled the controversy was the timing of his enlistment in the military: some observers accused the artist of having used his enlistment as a “shield” to avoid finalizing the investigation or responding directly to the media.
In the face of mounting criticism, CHA EUN WOO published a long message on his Instagram account on January 26, 2026. Far from cold agency statements, he addresses his fans directly with humility. He notably clarifies the issue of his enlistment, explaining that it was a legal obligation he could no longer postpone, and not an escape.
He also states that he will accept the final decision of the authorities and that he intends to assume full financial responsibility, thereby marking his willingness to close this chapter in an exemplary manner.
Translated message from CHA EUN WOO:
“Hello. This is Cha Eun Woo.
I sincerely bow my head to apologize for causing concern and disappointment to so many of you due to the recent events involving me.
Through this incident, I am deeply reflecting and asking myself whether my attitude, as a citizen of the Republic of Korea regarding the obligation of taxation, was sufficiently rigorous.
Over the past few days, I have spent time thinking about what words to begin with in order to convey, even a little, my regrets to those who were hurt because of me. I was afraid that a long message might seem like an excuse, or conversely, add to your fatigue, but I came to the conclusion that it was my duty to speak directly and apologize for this matter.
I am writing these words at this very moment after finishing my day within my unit. Although I am currently in military service, this was in no way an intentional choice to avoid this controversy. Last year, I could no longer postpone my enlistment, and I left without being able to finalize the procedures of the tax investigation.
However, as this remains a misunderstanding stemming from my own shortcomings, I feel a deep sense of responsibility. If I did not have the status of a soldier, I would have liked to personally visit everyone who was affected to apologize. It is with this sincerity that I am writing this message.
For these 11 long years, I, who have more flaws than strengths, was able to reach this place as ‘Cha Eun Woo’ thanks to the love and unconditional support you have sent me. That is why I am indescribably sorry for having caused such hurt and such fatigue to all those who supported me and all those I have worked with.
I will sincerely participate in the upcoming tax procedures. In addition, I will humbly accept the final judgment rendered by the competent authorities and assume my responsibilities accordingly.
Going forward, I will look at myself with greater rigor and live with a stronger sense of responsibility in order to repay the love I have received.
I once again sincerely apologize for the concern caused.
January 26, 2026, Sincerely, Cha Eun Woo.”
Despite the gravity of the figures announced, this message appears to be a first step toward reconciliation with a public that has always seen him as a model of virtue.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: SNS CHA EUN WOO
