South Korean actor and singer Cha Eun-woo, facing allegations of the largest-ever tax evasion of 20 billion won, became embroiled in controversy over a self-centered statement.
On the 26th, Cha Eun-woo posted a lengthy apology on his account. This statement came four days after reports emerged that the Seoul Regional Tax Office’s investigation department had conducted a rigorous tax investigation into him for alleged tax evasion.
Cha Eun-woo released his statement immediately after news broke that he had hired Sejong, one of the country’s five major law firms. Sejong, known for its strength in tax, finance, and litigation, has handled numerous tax disputes for corporations and high-net-worth individuals. Last September, the firm enhanced its tax capabilities by hiring former Seoul Regional Tax Office head Lim Sung-bin as an advisor.
Cha Eun-woo’s so-called “apology letter” further heightened public outrage. Despite having four days to express his position, Cha stated he “spent time reflecting to ensure my apologies could reach those hurt by my actions,” implying a period of self-forgiveness.
Although he claimed, “I worried that my lengthy letter might sound like excuses or cause fatigue, but I felt it was right to directly address and apologize for the issue,” the apology offered neither detailed excuses nor explanations to alleviate fatigue—only the empty phrase, “I want to apologize.”
He particularly remarked, “During the past 11 years, despite my shortcomings, I’ve reached my current position thanks to the boundless love and support you’ve given me,” appearing absorbed in self-consciousness.
What does ‘the current Cha Eun-woo’ mean? While he has dazzled the public with his remarkable looks, earning him the title “face genius,” he has achieved nothing particularly noteworthy since his debut with the group Astro in 2016. As a singer and actor, what is Cha Eun-woo’s standing to “give back” to the public? Doubts linger as to what exactly Cha intends to repay, as he promised to “strictly reflect on myself and repay the love people have given me.”
‘The current Cha Eun-woo’ seems oblivious to how much his record-breaking tax evasion has angered the public.
Meanwhile, his agency, Fantagio, issued an official statement on the 27th, just a day after Cha’s apology. The statement read: “Tax authorities are currently fact-checking the matter, and both the agency and the artist are cooperating within the necessary scope. If legal and administrative judgments become clear in the future, we will take the necessary measures responsibly according to the results. However, we sincerely ask for restraint in reckless speculation, the dissemination of unverified information, and the excessive interpretation of claims and suspicions some have raised.” This statement further fueled the controversy.
