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Cha Eun Woo issues apology over tax evasion allegations
Cha Eun Woo has released a statement to address the recent tax evasion allegations surrounding him.
On Instagram on Monday, the South Korean actor and singer apologized for the issue and expressed remorse for the disappointment it had caused.
“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 and translated into English by Soompi.
“Taking this incident as an opportunity, I have deeply reflected on whether my attitude toward my duty as a citizen of the Republic of Korea, particularly regarding tax payments, was sufficiently rigorous."
According to Cha Eun Woo, he has been thinking about what words to say “to convey even a little bit of my regret to those who were hurt by me."
He said he was worried that a long message might sound like an excuse or cause more stress, but concluded that it is his duty to address the issue and apologize.
He added that he wrote the statement after finishing his daily duties as part of his mandatory military service.
"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.
"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."
Reflecting on his 11-year career, he also said his success was made possible by the love and support he has received "despite having more shortcomings than possessions."
“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 said.
“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 added.
He ended his statement by saying that he intends to reflect deeply and be more responsible “with the mindset of repaying the love I have received.”
Cha Eun Woo is reportedly facing an additional 20 billion won (approximately P800 million) tax assessment following a review by South Korea’s National Tax Service involving a family-owned company founded by his mother.
Per Soompi, he was investigated in 2025 due to how his income was structured, with authorities reportedly viewing the family company as a “paper company.”
Previously, Cha Eun Woo's agency, Fantagio, responded to the allegations, stating that no official or final notice has been issued.
"The core issue in this matter is whether the corporation established by Cha Eun Woo’s mother constitutes a substantive taxable entity,” the statement read.
“We plan to actively provide explanations through lawful procedures regarding issues related to the interpretation and application of the law,” it added.
The statement further assured that Cha Eun Woo and his tax representatives will “cooperate diligently.”
Cha Eun Woo, known for his roles in "True Beauty" and "My ID is Gangnam Beauty," is currently serving in the Army Military Band. He is also part of the K-pop group Astro.
He was in the Philippines in March 2024 for his “Just One 10 Minute Mystery Elevator” fan concert.
That same year, he released his debut solo EP “Entity."
—Nika Roque/CDC, GMA Integrated News
