Cha Eun-woo, a member of the K-pop group ASTRO and an actor, is currently being investigated for tax evasion after he received a notice from the National Tax Service (NTS) about additional income tax over ₩20.0 billion KRW (approximately $13.8 million USD).

Per Koreaboo, this follows suspicions about his income structure, particularly a service contract and profit-sharing with Company A, a registered business owned by his mother, which is also related to his agency, Fantagio.

According to legal sources, Cha Eun-woo has hired Sejong, one of the top three law firms in Korea, in preparation for a possible court fight.

A lawyer from Roel Law Firm explained the legal approach in a video uploaded on Naver, saying,Sometimes the National Tax Service interprets laws in favor of the state and imposes excessive taxes." The lawyer added, "They first impose heavy additional taxes and then dispute the matter in court afterward."

The lawyer also highlighted recent trends in tax litigation, saying, "Recently, large law firms have often won lawsuits against the National Tax Service," and cautioned, "Since the possibility of excessive taxation by the tax authorities cannot be ruled out, we must watch the outcome until the very end."

While the legal team remains optimistic, concerns about Cha Eunwoo's public image persist. Lawyer Lee Tae Ho noted, "Most entertainers reach a settlement with the tax authorities at a certain level and close the case." He added, "In Cha Eunwoo's case, it seems that the National Tax Service pressured him, but since he refused to sign, they imposed the additional tax."

Lee further warned that even a legal victory may not erase public perception, saying, "Even if he wins the tax lawsuit later, the public will only remember that he evaded taxes. This issue will continue even after his military discharge."

Amid growing scrutiny, Cha Eunwoo issued a statement on Naver, expressing regret over the situation. He said, "I sincerely apologize for causing concern and disappointment due to recent matters related to me," and added, "As a citizen of Korea, I am deeply reflecting on whether my attitude toward my tax obligations was lacking."

The NTS continues to investigate Company A, questioning whether it is a "paper company" with no substantive business activities. The outcome of this case may not only affect Cha Eunwoo's finances but could have lasting effects on his career and public reputation.