The Ministry of National Defense has responded to public calls for disciplinary action against ASTRO member Cha Eunwoo after his recent tax evasion scandal. The ministry confirmed that Cha Eunwoo will remain in his current military band assignment as he does not meet the criteria for reassignment outlined by military regulations.

According to Koreaboo, the Ministry's Inspection Office of the Support Group stated, "The individual does not meet the criteria for reassignment as defined in Article 14 (Reassignment, etc.) of the Ministry of National Defense Personnel Management Directive, so he will continue in his current role."

Article 14 specifies that reassignment is only warranted in cases such as inability to perform duties due to accident or illness, unit disbandment or reorganization, or if the Chief of Staff deems it necessary for those involved in incidents like assault or subject to disciplinary action. Cha Eunwoo's case was reviewed and found not to fall under these circumstances.

Last year, Cha Eunwoo was investigated intensively by the 4th Division of the Seoul Regional Tax Office on allegations of tax evasion. He was notified of back taxes exceeding ₩20.0 billion KRW (about $13.8 million USD).

According to the outlet, this investigation brought significant public attention to Cha Eunwoo's financial matters.

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In response to the investigation, Cha Eunwoo issued a statement on April 8, expressing his stance on the matter, "I respect the tax office's procedures and results and have paid all related taxes to prevent any further confusion. I will also sincerely comply with the remaining procedures."

Further reports from Naver clarified that due to overlapping payments related to corporate and value-added taxes, a refund process is currently underway. Consequently, the actual amount paid by Cha Eunwoo is about ₩13.0 billion KRW (approximately $8.99 million USD), which is less than the initially reported ₩20.0 billion KRW.

The Ministry's decision to keep Cha Eunwoo in his current military role comes amid ongoing public scrutiny, but it adheres strictly to established military personnel guidelines.

Recently, Star News said that Cha Eun-woo has confirmed he paid 13 billion won in taxes, addressing past allegations of tax evasion. The actor apologized, taking full responsibility and pledging stricter oversight of his future activities. He stars in Netflix's upcoming series "Wonderfuls," which premieres April 15, 2026.

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