ASTRO member and actor Cha Eun‑Woo has issued his first personal statement amid serious allegations of tax evasion linked to his agency Fantagio. In a long and emotional message shared on social media, the star apologised for causing concern and confirmed that he will fully cooperate with authorities and accept their final decision.
The statement comes days after Fantagio addressed reports claiming Eun-Woo was involved in tax irregularities amounting to ₩20 billion (approximately $13.8 million), one of the largest additional tax assessments ever linked to a Korean celebrity.
“I Bow My Head and Apologise”
In his post, Cha Eun-Woo expressed regret for disappointing fans, colleagues, and the public, saying the controversy prompted deep self-reflection — especially regarding his responsibilities as a citizen.
“I sincerely bow my head and apologise for causing concern and disappointment to many people due to various recent matters involving me,” he wrote, adding that he questioned whether his attitude toward tax obligations had been sufficiently rigorous.
The singer-actor explained that he spent several days carefully thinking about how to address the situation without sounding defensive or making excuses. He ultimately decided that speaking directly was his responsibility, even if it meant reopening difficult conversations.
Statement Written During Military Service
Cha Eun-Woo also clarified that he is currently completing his mandatory military service and wrote the statement after finishing his duties for the day. He stressed that his enlistment was not an attempt to avoid controversy, but something that could not be postponed any further.
“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,” he shared, emphasising the sincerity behind his words.
Reflecting on his 11-year career, Eun-Woo acknowledged that his success was built entirely on public trust and support — something he now feels he has failed to protect adequately. He promised to participate faithfully in all upcoming tax-related procedures.
“I Will Live With Greater Responsibility”
Closing his statement, Eun-Woo said he would accept the authorities’ final judgment and take full responsibility for the outcome.
“In the future, I will reflect on myself more rigorously and live with a greater sense of responsibility,” he concluded.
What the Allegations Are About
According to reports in South Korean media, Cha Eun-Woo is accused of using a “one-person agency” structure to reduce income tax liability — a practice that has previously landed other celebrities under scrutiny. Similar cases have involved figures like Sung Si-Kyung and Ok Joo-Hyun.
South Korea’s National Tax Service has reportedly accused the idol of evading taxes worth $13.8 million, making it one of the most high-profile tax cases in the Korean entertainment industry in recent years.
Final Words
While investigations are still ongoing, Cha Eun-Woo’s statement marks his first direct acknowledgement of the controversy — one that balances apology, accountability, and restraint. For fans and industry watchers alike, the focus now shifts to the authorities’ final decision and how the situation ultimately unfolds.
