Cha Eunwoo Apologizes Amid Tax Controversy, Says He Will “Accept the Outcome”

Cha Eunwoo has personally spoken out for the first time regarding the tax evasion allegations surrounding him. The idol-actor personally offered a direct and emotional apology while currently serving in the military.

On January 26, he posted a handwritten statement on his personal Instagram account. In it, Cha Eunwoo bowed his head and apologized to the public for causing ‘concern and disappointment.’

The ‘Stay’ singer said he has spent days reflecting deeply on his responsibility as a citizen, especially regarding tax obligations. He explained that he struggled with how to address the issue and worried that explaining too much could sound like an excuse. Even so, he decided that directly addressing the matter was something he “must do.”

“I came to the conclusion that it is my duty to directly address this matter and apologize,” he stated.

Cha Eunwoo confirmed that he wrote the letter after completing his daily military duties. He strongly denied claims that his enlistment was meant to avoid the issue. “This was by no means an intentional choice to avoid this controversy,” he stressed. According to him, he enlisted in July 2025 because he had reached a point where his military service could no longer be postponed.

The ASTRO member also admitted that he feels deeply responsible for the misunderstanding and shortcomings. He shared that if he were not currently serving, he would want to personally meet those affected and apologize in person.

“For the past 11 years, despite having more shortcomings than possessions, I was able to stand here thanks to your unreserved love and support,” Cha Eunwoo wrote. He added that he was deeply sorry to fans and colleagues for causing pain and fatigue.

Regarding the investigation, he promised to “faithfully participate” in all future tax-related procedures. He also stated that he will “humbly accept” whatever final decision is made by the authorities and take full responsibility.

The controversy stems from allegations raised by NTS, which claims Cha Eunwoo may owe more than 20 billion won, roughly 13.6 million dollars, in unpaid taxes. Authorities suspect that some of his entertainment income was processed through a family-related company registered under his mother’s name. 

This structure allegedly allowed the income to be taxed at a lower corporate rate instead of the higher personal income tax rate.

Before Cha’s statement, his agency Fantagio denied any wrongdoing. The agency stated that the company involved is a legitimate cultural planning business and confirmed that the ‘True Beauty’ actor has requested a pre-assessment review to contest the tax authority’s findings. As of now, no final ruling has been made, and the case remains a civil tax dispute.

The final outcome will depend on the review by tax authorities. If the claim of a paper company is upheld, Cha Eunwoo could be required to pay the assessed taxes and penalties. If intentional wrongdoing is determined, the case could escalate into a criminal investigation.

Closing his message, Cha Eunwoo promised, “I will reflect on myself more rigorously and live with a greater sense of responsibility.’