News
Cha Eun-woo breaks silence amid tax evasion controversy
Photo Inside Page
Photos
South Korean star Cha Eun-woo became the talk of the internet after tax evasion allegations surfaced, and now the actor-idol is finally speaking up to set the record straight.
In an Instagram post on Monday, January 26, the South Korean actor-singer issued an apology and promised to take accountability.
“I sincerely bow my head and apologize for causing concern and disappointment to many people due to various recent matters involving myself,” he said in Korean, according to an English translation by Soompi.
Eun-woo admitted that he has deeply reflected on his attitude as a citizen of the Republic of Korea, especially as a taxpayer.
Amid the controversy, he shared that he has been thinking carefully about what words to say “to convey even a little bit of my regret to those who were hurt by me.”
Despite the criticism he may receive for releasing the lengthy message, written while he is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, Eun-woo said it was his duty to address the issue and ask for forgiveness.
"Currently, I am serving in the military, but this was by no means an intentional choice to avoid this controversy. Last year, I was in a situation where I could no longer postpone my military enlistment, and thus I enlisted without being able to complete the tax investigation procedures," he said.
He added, “However, I deeply feel the responsibility for this misunderstanding, which also stemmed from my own shortcomings. If I were not a soldier at the moment, I would want to personally visit and bow my head to all those who were harmed by this incident. With that sentiment, I am writing this letter with all my sincerity."
Expressing remorse, Eun-woo reflected on the love and support he has received throughout his 11-year career, saying his success was made possible by the unwavering encouragement of fans and colleagues despite his shortcomings.
“Therefore, I am indescribably sorry for not even being able to repay but to have caused great pain and fatigue to all those who believed in and supported me despite my inadequacies and to the many people I have worked with," he expressed.
The South Korean star also promised to take full accountability and remain transparent moving forward.
“I will faithfully participate in the tax-related procedures that will proceed in the future. Furthermore, I will humbly accept the final decision made by the relevant authorities and take full responsibility accordingly," he said.
He concluded his statement by pledging to reflect further on his actions and to live more responsibly as a way of repaying the love he has received.
Recently, Eun-woo faced tax evasion allegations amounting to 20 billion won (nearly PhP800 million), which are currently under review by South Korea's National Tax Service and involve a family-owned company founded by his mother.
His agency, Fantagio, also released a statement clarifying that there is still no final report regarding the case.
"The core issue in this matter is whether the corporation established by Cha Eun Woo's mother constitutes a substantive taxable entity. We plan to actively provide explanations through lawful procedures regarding issues related to the interpretation and application of the law,” the statement read.
The agency also assured the public that Eun-woo and his tax representatives will cooperate fully throughout the investigation.
Eun-woo is known for his roles in hit Korean dramas My ID Is Gangnam Beauty and True Beauty. He began his mandatory military service on July 28, 2025.
Aside from acting, he is also a member of the South Korean boy group ASTRO. In 2024, he released his debut solo EP, Entity.
RELATED GALLERY: Meet K-idol Cha Eun-woo
![June One 10 Minute [Mystery Elevator]](https://aphrodite.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/photos/photo/photos_of_k-idol_cha_eun-woo_that_scream_leading_june_one_10_minute__mystery_elevator__1753757451.jpg)
