Home / Arts and Entertainment / Cha Eun-woo Faces 13.7 Million Tax Controversy
Cha Eun-woo Faces 13.7 Million Tax Controversy
27 Jan
Summary
- K-pop star Cha Eun-woo is under tax investigation for alleged shortfall.
- Company under his mother's name is central to the tax dispute.
- Cha Eun-woo apologized while serving military duty.
K-pop and K-drama sensation Cha Eun-woo is embroiled in a significant tax dispute with South Korea's National Tax Service. Authorities are investigating an alleged tax shortfall of 20 billion won, approximately $13.7 million, linked to a company reportedly established by his mother, Cha's Gallery. Investigators suspect this firm may have been used as a 'paper company' to reclassify entertainment income, thereby reducing Cha's personal tax burden.
Fantagio, Cha Eun-woo's agency, has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the company under his mother's name is a legitimate cultural and arts planning entity. They state that a pre-assessment review is underway and no final determination has been made. Cha Eun-woo himself, while currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, posted an apology on social media on January 26, 2026.
In his apology, Cha expressed deep regret over the controversy and pledged to humbly accept the final judgment and take full responsibility. He also vowed to comply faithfully with all future tax-related procedures. The company Cha's Gallery was reportedly dissolved in 2024, with new entities allegedly established thereafter to manage Cha's assets.
