Cha Eun Woo directly addressed the ongoing controversy over allegations of 20 billion won in tax evasion. On the evening of January 26, the actor and ASTRO member shared a handwritten letter of apology on his personal Instagram account, attracting public attention.
In the statement, Cha Eun Woo expressed deep remorse for disappointing fans and the public, saying he is seriously considering whether he has responsibly fulfilled his tax obligations as a South Korean citizen. He stressed that his current military service should not be interpreted as an attempt to evade investigations.
“I sincerely bow my head in apology for causing concern and disappointment due to the recent problem,” he wrote. “Through this incident, I am thinking deeply about my attitude towards fulfilling my duty to pay taxes.”
The star born in 1997 also clarified that his enlistment was inevitable and not linked to the controversy. According to his explanation, last year he had reached the point where postponing his military service was no longer possible, forcing him to enlist before the tax procedures were fully concluded.
“I am currently fulfilling my military duty. This was absolutely not a deliberate choice to avoid controversy,” he said, adding that he would have personally apologized to those affected if it were not for his status as an active duty soldier.
Cha Eun Woo also acknowledged that the situation stemmed from his own shortcomings and took full responsibility for the misunderstanding. He attributed his 11-year career and continued success to the unwavering support of fans, expressing regret for causing emotional distress to those who trusted him.
“Hi, I’m Cha Eun Woo. I sincerely bow my head and apologize for causing so much worry and disappointment due to the recent issue. Through this incident, I am deeply reflecting on myself and seriously examining whether my attitude towards fulfilling my duty to pay taxes, as a citizen of South Korea, was responsible enough.
Over the past few days I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting and wrestling with where and how to start, hoping to convey even a little of my remorse to those I’ve hurt. I also worried that if I wrote too much, my words might be misinterpreted as excuses or cause further fatigue. However, I decided that in this situation the right thing to do was to speak directly and apologize.
I am writing this letter after completing my duties for the day at my unit. I am currently doing my compulsory military service. This was absolutely not a deliberate choice to avoid the controversies surrounding this matter. Last year I found myself in a situation where I could no longer postpone my enlistment, which is why I enlisted before all tax investigation procedures were fully completed.
However, since this misunderstanding is due to my own shortcomings, I am acutely aware of my responsibility. If I had not served as an active duty soldier, I would have wanted to personally visit every individual affected by this situation and bow my head in apology. With these feelings in mind, I write these words with the utmost sincerity.
For the past 11 years, someone like me, who has more flaws than strengths, has been able to hold the position of “Cha Eun Woo”, far beyond what I deserve, solely because of everyone’s boundless love and support. For this reason, although I have not yet managed to repay the trust and support of those who believed in me, as well as of the many people with whom I have collaborated, I have instead caused great pain and effort. I feel truly and deeply sorry, so much so that words cannot fully express it.
In the future, I will honestly cooperate with all tax-related procedures. At the same time, I will humbly accept the final decision of the relevant authorities and fully fulfill all responsibilities corresponding to such a result. From now on I will reflect on myself even more rigorously and live with a stronger sense of responsibility, hoping that I can repay even a small part of the love I have received.
Once again, I sincerely apologize for causing everyone concern.
January 26, 2026.
Cha Eun Woo.”
As the investigation continues, Cha Eun Woo said he will accept any decision from the authorities and will fully comply with all obligations arising from the case.
Sources: Instagram
