ASTRO member and actor Cha Eunwoo has paid approximately ₩13.0 billion KRW (about $8.82 million USD) in taxes related to tax evasion allegations. Contrary to criticism that he “only paid reluctantly after delaying,” Cha Eunwoo’s side stated, “He never postponed payment.” Attention is now focused on his next moves following the resolution of the controversy.
On the 9th, Cha Eunwoo’s representatives said, “Although some adjustments are expected through the National Tax Service refund process, the actual tax burden is about ₩13.0 billion KRW (about $8.82 million USD),” adding that “all personal income taxes have been fully paid.”
Earlier, Cha Eunwoo underwent a tax audit by the National Tax Service over transactions with a corporation registered under his family’s name. It was revealed that he was initially notified of a tax bill of around ₩20.0 billion KRW (about $13.6 million USD), causing a major stir. After a pre-assessment review and adjustment process before final taxation, the actual amount paid has been settled at roughly ₩13.0 billion KRW (about $8.82 million USD).
Some criticism arose claiming that he delayed payment and only paid due to pressure. However, according to Cha Eunwoo’s side, this is not accurate.
During the pre-assessment review before final taxation, the exact tax amount had not yet been finalized, making early payment before the official notice impossible. After waiting for this process, payment was made immediately upon receipt of the recent tax notice.
The Reason ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo Didn’t Pay His Tax Evasion Bill Until Now
Meanwhile, Cha Eunwoo personally issued an apology stating, “I respect the procedures and outcomes of the National Tax Service and have paid all related taxes,” and vowed, “I will not evade responsibility for any reason.”
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Industry insiders are paying close attention to why Cha Eunwoo chose to make a prompt payment instead of pursuing further legal disputes. With the release of the Netflix series The Wonderfools, in which he plays a leading role, scheduled for May, it is believed he wanted to minimize risks by resolving the controversy quickly. Production teams and industry sources, anticipating the release, are reportedly relieved that the matter was settled swiftly.
Public opinion, however, has not fully turned around. Given the enormous tax amount of ₩13.0 billion KRW (about $8.82 million USD), which is not insignificant, the key issue remains how Cha Eunwoo will responsibly conclude this matter and regain trust in his future activities.
As his future attitude and actions will be crucial, there is also growing interest in whether the previously stalled promotion and marketing schedules can be normalized.