Cha Eun Woo breaks silence, apologizes over tax evasion issue
MANILA, Philippines — Korean singer and actor Cha Eun-woo issued an apology following his alleged attempt to evade taxes worth over 20 billion won (P804 million).
It can be recalled that Eun-woo was under investigation for tax evasion by being represented by his label Fantagio and a supposed separate family company through his mother.
Both parties seemingly entered a service agreement, becoming an alleged avenue for the Astro member to lower taxes by splitting his income among his label, the family company and himself.
Fantagio issued a statement addressing Eun-woo's tax audit, noting the primary issue was whether the family company qualifies as a substantive taxable entity, and assured the artist would cooperate with the investigation.
Apologies. Eun-woo, meanwhile, broke his silence on the matter by posting on Instagram a blacked-out image accompanied by a message in the caption.
The artist apologized for the disturbances he may have caused after reflecting on the issue for the past few days.
"I was worried that a lengthy explanation might sound like an excuse or even cause further fatigue," Eun-woo said in Korean. "But I came to the conclusion that it is my duty to address this matter directly and offer my apology."
He noted he was currently in the middle of military service but stressed that joining the army was not any means to avoid controversy as time was running out for his enlistment.
"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," Eun-woo continued, adding his words were borne from sincerity.
"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."
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Eun-woo reiterated he would rightfully participate in future tax-related procedures and would accept the authorities' decision on the current matter, taking full responsibility.
"In the future, I will reflect on myself more rigorously and live with a greater sense of responsibility, with the mindset of repaying the love I have received. Once again, I sincerely apologize for causing concern," the artist ended.
Background. Born Lee Dong-min, Eun-woo made his acting debut in 2014 before debuting with the boy band Astro two years later.
His popularity led to projects like "Sweet Revenge," "Top Management" and his first leading role "Gangnam Beauty." He made his solo debut as a singer in 2024 with the release of the extended play "Entity."
Eun-woo enlisted for Korea's mandatory military service last July and is serving in the Army Band with still a year of service still to go.
Before he enlisted, he shot "The Wonderfools" opposite Park Eun-bin, which is due for release later this year.
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