Cha Eun Woo writes apology for tax evasion oversight, confirms full settlement
Cha Eun Woo has apologized and confirmed that he has fully paid his taxes.
On Instagram, the Korean actor and ASTRO member apologized to his fans "for the disappointment and confusion caused by the recent tax-related controversy" that involved him.
He explained that he delayed his reply to remain "cautious in expressing [his] position" while navigating the necessary "administrative procedures."
"I respect the procedures and findings of the National Tax Service, and to prevent any further confusion, I have fully paid the related taxes. I will also diligently comply with any remaining procedures," he said, as translated by Soompi.
"Having received so much love and support, I am taking this matter very seriously and reflecting deeply. If there were aspects I failed to carefully review, the responsibility lies entirely with me. I will not avoid accountability by saying 'I didn’t know' or that it was 'someone else’s decision,'"
Eun Woo explained that he previously established a corporation to manage his professional activities. Acknowledging oversight, he admitted there were areas he "did not examine thoroughly enough," taking full responsibility rather than attributing fault to his family.
"Through this incident, I have come to realize the need to reflect on myself. Above all, I feel most terrible and sorry for disappointing my fans AROHA [ASTRO’s fandom], who have trusted and supported me," he said.
Moving forward, the actor vowed to uphold stricter standards and exercise greater care in "all aspects of [his] activities."
"I will continue striving and trying my best to become someone who takes full responsibility for my choices and actions," he said. "Once again, I offer my sincere apologies."
In January, Korean news outlet Edaily reported that the National Tax Service in Korea has notified the singer-actor of tax liabilities amounting to more than 20 billion won (more than P800 million).
Per the report, the paper company founded by Eun Woo’s mother had a service contract with Fantagio, the agency managing his boy group ASTRO, to support his entertainment activities. It added that under the agreement, profits were to be shared among Fantagio, the company, and Eun Woo.
Following the news, his agency, Fantagio, issued a statement clarifying that the central issue is "whether a company established by Cha’s mother qualifies as a legitimate subject of taxation."
The agency noted that Eun Woo’s company intends to "actively clarify its position through appropriate legal procedures" regarding the interpretation and application of tax laws.
Eun Woo also wrote a message on Instagram, saying he will comply with the procedures.
He also promised to “humbly accept the final decision” of authorities.
Aside from being a member of ASTRO, Eun Woo is also known for his roles in K-dramas such as True Beauty, Island, Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung, My ID Is Gangnam Beauty, and Decibel.