Im Siwan's 2022 MBC drama Tracer is gaining renewed attention as ASTRO's Cha Eunwoo faces a high-profile tax evasion scandal. The series, centered on the National Tax Service, has become a topic of discussion among K-Drama fans seeking context for the ongoing news.
According to MyDaily, the Seoul Regional Tax Office's Investigation Bureau #4, often referred to as the "Grim Reapers of the business world," launched an intensive investigation into Cha Eunwoo's finances.
The bureau found that the K-Pop idol had allegedly evaded taxes through a single-person agency set up by his mother, resulting in an additional ₩20.0 billion KRW (about $13.8 million USD) in assessed taxes—the largest ever imposed on a celebrity.
The renewed interest in Tracer comes from the series' focus on a fictionalized National Tax Service investigative team, which mirrors the real-life investigative body that audited Cha Eunwoo.
A theqoo post highlighting the show described it as "a fast-paced, cathartic investigative thriller that follows the ruthless, take-no-prisoners exploits of a hardened operative who has ended up there, stopping at nothing."
Fans of the show praised both the storyline and Im Siwan's performance. One theqoo user said, "This one is insanely good." Another added, "Thanks, Cha Eunwoo. I'm going to save this one, LOL."
Other comments highlighted the strength of the lead character, Hwang Dong Joo. A fan wrote, "This is a really good show. Im Siwan's character isn't frustrating, he's insanely smart. I should watch it again." Another noted, "Tracer is crazy good. Now that I'm thinking about it, I should rewatch."
Additional viewers emphasized the series' intelligence and entertainment value. "After watching it, you kind of feel smarter," a theqoo commenter said, while another praised Im Siwan's acting: "The character Hwang Dong Joo is absolutely unhinged with insane skills, and Im Siwan's acting is ridiculously good at portraying that."
Koreaboo reported that the drama's resurgence reflects a broader trend where real-world events can revive interest in media exploring similar themes. As Cha Eunwoo's tax case continues to unfold, Tracer remains a top recommendation for viewers intrigued by investigative thrillers and the workings of Korea's tax authorities.
