Cha Eun Woo Is Under Investigation Over Alleged $13.6 Million Tax Evasion

Cha Eun Woo is facing scrutiny after reports surfaced that South Korea’s National Tax Service is investigating the ASTRO member and actor for alleged large-scale tax evasion amounting to more than 20 billion won, or approximately $13.6 million/P800 million. The investigation has prompted a formal response from his agency, Fantagio, which says the matter has yet to be finalized and will be addressed through legal channels.

In a report by Korean outlet Edaily, Cha Eun Woo underwent an extensive audit in July 2025 conducted by the Seoul Regional Tax Office’s Investigation Division 4, a unit responsible for major tax evasion cases, shortly before he began his military service. Following the audit, the National Tax Service reportedly notified him of additional taxes, including income tax.

The investigation centers on a company reportedly established by Eun Woo’s mother, which signed a service contract with Fantagio. Some of the actor’s income flowed through this company before reaching him. The National Tax Service found that the company did not appear to provide actual services. Its registered address was in a remote area of Ganghwa Island, and while the company recorded expenses such as imported cars, investigators saw no evidence of distinct services separate from Fantagio.

Based on these findings, the authorities classified the company as a “paper company” and concluded that the arrangement was used primarily to reduce Eun Woo’s tax obligations.

Fantagio addressed the allegations in an official statement, emphasizing that the case has not yet been finalized. According to Soompi, the agency said, “The key issue in this matter is whether the corporation established by Cha Eun Woo’s mother falls under the category of an entity subject to substantive taxation. Nothing has been finally confirmed or officially notified at this time, and we plan to actively clarify the matter in accordance with lawful procedures.”

The agency also assured the public that both Eun Woo and his tax representatives “will cooperate diligently” throughout the investigation. Fantagio added, “We assure you that Cha Eun Woo will continue, as a citizen of this country, to faithfully fulfill tax filings and his legal obligations.”

Since July 2025, Cha Eun Woo has been serving in the Army Military Band, with his military obligations set to conclude on January 27, 2027.