The Influence of ASTRO Cha Eunwoo’s Military Service on His Tax Evasion Controversy

Cha Eunwoo is facing a tax evasion controversy during his military service.
The rumor started after Seoul Regional Tax Office slapped him with the highest ever tax bill for a domestic entertainer—₩20 billion KRW (about $13.8 million USD). Authorities say his corporation was only used to funnel income without real services.
Cha Eunwoo’s side fired back, saying the management company was officially registered and actually worked. His agency, Fantagio, said they’re cooperating fully with the tax authorities.
Fantagio said:
“The current issue is in the process of fact verification by the tax authorities in accordance with procedural steps. Both the agency and the artist are fully cooperating within the scope required. When legal and administrative decisions become clear, we will take necessary actions responsibly based on those results.”
Cha Eunwoo himself denied dodging investigation by enlisting in the military. He said on record:
“Although I am currently serving in the military, this controversy was never the reason for my enlistment.”
“Last year, I was no longer able to delay military enlistment, so I joined before completing the tax investigation procedure.”
Lawyer Kim Jeong Gi from Roel Law Firm said military status doesn’t stop investigation.
Kim Jeong Gi explained:
“Cha Eunwoo cannot avoid investigation simply because he has military status. Investigators will visit the base or summon him during leave for questioning.”
“Even if the alleged crime occurred while he was a civilian, if he is currently a soldier, investigations can proceed in cooperation with military prosecutors, and if necessary, questioning may continue after his discharge.”
Following the scandal, KFN videos with Cha Eunwoo were made private. A public petition was filed asking for his reassignment within the military band.
Lawyer Kim commented on military authority:
“Military personnel rights, including command and military administrative authority, rest with the military commander. Which position Cha Eunwoo holds depends on the base commander, and no one other than that commander’s supervisor can intervene.”
“However, the commander could reassign Cha Eunwoo to a different position at their discretion in response to public opinion.”
Check out the timeline and updates on Cha Eunwoo’s Tax Evasion Scandal right here.
Cha Eunwoo is under investigation for alleged tax evasion during his military service. Lawyer says military status won’t stop the probe. More updates soon. #ChaEunwoo #TaxEvasion March 30, 2024