Astro’s Cha Eunwoo Faces Notorious World-Class Tax Evasion Scandal
Cha Eunwoo is facing a huge tax evasion scandal involving ₩20.0 billion KRW (about $13.8 million USD).
The controversy began after a tax audit last year. The National Tax Service told Cha Eunwoo to pay back taxes because his mother’s company, Company A, had a contract with his agency Fantagio but didn’t actually provide services. The NTS called it a paper company. Cha Eunwoo and his mom reportedly set it up to dodge income tax by shifting money to corporate tax, which has a much lower rate.
This ₩20 billion KRW penalty is the biggest ever for a Korean celebrity. Online chatter ranks Cha Eunwoo’s alleged tax evasion sixth worldwide among stars. Topping the list is Chinese actress Fan Bing Bing with ₩144 billion KRW (about $99.6 million USD). Others ahead include Zheng Shuang, Cristiano Ronaldo, Willie Nelson, and Shakira.
The penalty is not finalized. On June 22, Cha Eunwoo’s agency Fantagio said:
“The main issue concerns whether the company established by Cha Eunwoo’s mother is subject to actual taxation. This matter has not been finally confirmed or notified, and we intend to actively clarify the points regarding legal interpretation and application following due process.”
Fantagio added:
“The artist and his tax representatives will sincerely cooperate to expedite the conclusion of this procedure. Cha Eunwoo promises to continue fulfilling his tax reporting and legal obligations faithfully as a citizen.”
Cha Eunwoo’s side is waiting on a “pre-assessment review” they asked for to challenge the NTS decision.
The timing is notable because Cha Eunwoo enlisted in the military on July 28 last year. Some fans suspect the tax results were delayed until after enlistment to avoid backlash—a “military run.” After the news broke, Cha Eunwoo was removed from ads for a beauty brand and a bank commercial.
As the situation unfolds, eyes are on whether Cha Eunwoo will issue more statements or take further steps.
Related Tweets and Media
Currently no official tweets or videos have been released by the artist or agency.