On January 29, Fantagio officially acknowledged to Xports News: “It is true that we were fined ₩8.2 billion last year.” The agency clarified that while some reports cited the fine as ₩8.5 billion, the precise figure is ₩8.2 billion.
Previously, Cha Eun Woo had been subjected to an extensive tax audit by the Seoul Regional Tax Bureau in 2025. Following the investigation, authorities concluded that Cha Eun Woo had allegedly evaded income tax by channeling his earnings through a one-person agency set up by his mother. As a result, he was reportedly served a tax bill of ₩20 billion, one of the largest ever levied against a South Korean entertainer.
The National Tax Service also determined that Fantagio received improper tax benefits through his financial dealings with Cha Eun Woo’s private company. As a result, Fantagio was fined ₩8.2 billion in back taxes.
Some industry insiders speculate that Fantagio may seek compensation from Cha Eun Woo for the fine he received. However, given Cha Eun Woo’s immense value to the agency, such action is considered unlikely.
Regarding the dispute, Fantagio said he is cooperating fully with the authorities and said: “We will take all necessary actions responsibly once the legal and administrative decisions are finalized.”
Cha Eun Woo also addressed the issue on his personal account, pledging to “faithfully comply with the ongoing tax procedures” and to “humbly accept the authorities’ final decision and take full responsibility.”
Sources: Daum
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