Singer and actor Cha Eun-woo has spoken for the first time amid tax evasion allegations. He directly addressed speculation regarding his military enlistment to avoid controversy.
Cha Eun-woo posted an apology on his account on the 26th, stating, “I sincerely apologize for causing concern and disappointment to many with various issues related to me recently.”
Last year, Cha Eun-woo underwent a rigorous tax audit by the Seoul Regional Tax Office’s 4th Bureau due to tax evasion allegations, and the National Tax Service notified him to pay an additional tax of about 20 billion won, the highest amount ever imposed on a celebrity.
The Tax Office reportedly waited until his enlistment process was completed before sending the audit results. This led to speculation that he enlisted to avoid the controversy.
In his apology, Cha Eun-woo directly denied these rumors, stating, “I am writing this after finishing my duties in the military unit.”
He further explained, “Although I am currently serving in the military, it was not an intentional choice to avoid the controversy. Last year, I was in a situation where I could no longer postpone enlistment, so I enlisted without completing the tax audit procedures.”
Cha Eun-woo added, “This is also a misunderstanding stemming from my shortcomings, and I deeply feel the responsibility. If I were not a soldier, I would want to personally apologize to everyone affected by this issue.”
He also stated, “I will faithfully comply with the future tax-related procedures, and I will humbly accept the final decision by the relevant authorities and take responsibility accordingly.”
Earlier, reports indicated Cha Eun-woo went on vacation early this year after receiving notification of the over 20 billion won additional tax. Rumors also suggested he hired the law firm Sejong to prepare legal action against the tax decision.
While the apology did not specifically explain the tax evasion allegations, the reported hiring of a major law firm has garnered attention. Observers are closely watching how he will respond to the controversy.
When the allegations initially surfaced, his agency Fantagio stated, “This is not a final or officially notified matter, and we plan to actively clarify the legal interpretation and application through lawful procedures.”
