Actor Cha Eun-woo has been caught in the middle of a major controversy, creating unexpected uncertainty for his upcoming Netflix series The crazy wonders.
On April 22, it was reported that Cha Eun-woo had been subjected to an in-depth investigation by the Investigation Division 4 of the Seoul Regional Tax Bureau. According to reports, the National Tax Service notified the actor of additional tax payments exceeding KRW 20 billion (about $15 million), citing alleged tax evasion. If confirmed, this would represent the largest tax penalty ever imposed on a South Korean artist.
As news of the investigation spread, attention quickly shifted to Cha Eun-woo’s next project, the Netflix original series The crazy wonders. The drama is scheduled for release in the third quarter of the year and is set in 1999, a time when apocalyptic beliefs were widespread. The story follows a group of ordinary neighborhood residents who unexpectedly gain superpowers and band together to protect the city of Haeseong from a powerful villain in a supernatural action comedy.
Just a day before the controversy emerged, an event about the 2026 content lineup was held, where Park Eun-bin spoke warmly about her co-star. He said, “I really felt there couldn’t be a better actor for the role. He gave his all to the project before fulfilling his duty to the country. Wherever he is, I believe he lives well. Of course, I wish we could do the promotion together, but I will work even harder on his behalf. I hope he returns in glory.”
Park Eun-bin’s comments were widely interpreted as a show of support for Cha Eun-woo, who is currently conscripted for mandatory military service. However, the timing of his remarks has since attracted renewed attention following the tax allegations.
The crazy wonders boasts a strong cast, including Kim Hae-sook, Choi Dae-hoon, Lim Sung-jae, and Son Hyun-joo. The series also caused a stir due to the reunion between Park Eun-bin and director Yoo In-sik, following the huge success of Lawyer extraordinaire Woo.
Despite high expectations, reactions online have been mixed since the controversy emerged. Netizens have expressed concerns such as “Want The crazy wonders be able to go on the air?”, “Tax evasion is shocking” AND “Cha Eun-woo turned out to be the biggest variable.” While Netflix has yet to release an official statement, the situation has undeniably cast a shadow over the drama’s promotional plans and audience reception.
Whether the charges will have a significant impact The crazy wonders remains to be seen, but the controversy has already become an inevitable talking point surrounding one of Netflix Korea’s most anticipated releases.
Sources: Naver
