A Korean news media outlet previously reported that ASTRO member Cha Eun Woo was investigated last year by the Seoul Regional Tax Office over alleged tax issues. The National Tax Service later issued an additional tax assessment reportedly exceeding 20 billion won (approximately USD 13.6 million).
On January 26, Cha Eun Woo addressed the matter in a post shared on his personal Instagram.
In his post, Cha Eun Woo said:
Hello, this is Cha Eun Woo.
sincerely bow my head and apologize for causing
concern and disappointment to many people due to various recent matters involving myself.
Taking this incident as an opportunity, I have deeply reflected on whether my attitude toward my duty as a citizen of the Republic of Korea, particularly regarding tax payments, was sufficiently rigorous.
For the past few days, I have spent time contemplating and reflecting on what words I should offer first to convey even a little bit of my regret to those who were hurt by me.
I was worried that a lengthy explanation might sound like an excuse or even cause further fatigue, but I came to the conclusion that it is my duty to address this matter directly and offer my apology.
I am writing this after finishing my daily duties within the military unit.
Currently, I am serving in the military, but this was by no means an intentional choice to avoid this controversy.
Last year, I was in a situation where I could no longer postpone my military enlistment, and thus I enlisted without being able to complete the tax investigation procedures.
However, I deeply feel the responsibility for this misunderstanding, which also stemmed from my own shortcomings.
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. With that sentiment, I am writing this letter with all my sincerity.
For the long period of the past 11 years, despite having more shortcomings than possessions, I was able to be in this undeserved position as “Cha Eun Woo” thanks to your unreserved love and support.
Therefore, 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.
I will faithfully participate in the tax-related procedures that will proceed in the future.
Furthermore, I will humbly accept the final decision made by the relevant authorities and take full responsibility accordingly.
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.
January 26, 2026
Sincerely,
Cha Eun Woo
View this post on Instagram
Earlier, Cha Eun Woo’s agency, fantagio, also issued a statement saying that the artist and his tax representative will cooperate fully for a quick resolution and that he will continue to meet his tax and legal obligations.
According to reports, authorities questioned the structure of his income and subsequently issued the additional tax assessment. The case remains under review.
Cha Eun Woo has been serving in the Army Military Band since July last year and is scheduled to be discharged on January 27, 2027.
Connect with us on Instagram | X | YouTube for more content, interviews, & news.
