South Korean "top star" Cha Eun-woo is reportedly involved in a tax controversy. According to South Korean media on the Jan. 22, the National Tax Service has notified Cha Eun-woo that he is to repay over 20 billion won (approximately HK$1 million) in personal income tax due to allegations of tax evasion and other illegal activities. This amount sets a record for the highest tax recovery from a Korean celebrity in history. Cha Eun-woo was previously investigated for tax issues before enlisting for military service in July 2025.
Reports indicate that Cha Eun-woo was investigated in 2025 for alleged tax evasion. The accusations against him resemble those of several other South Korean artists who have been accused of using "shell companies" to evade taxes. This method involves artists establishing "shell companies" through family members to report their income under the company's name, effectively avoiding tax.
In Cha Eun-woo's case, a company set up by his mother signed contracts on his behalf with his management company. The Korean National Tax Service has determined that this company is a "shell company" that does not provide any actual services, and that its purpose is to help Cha Eun-woo avoid a personal income tax rate of up to 45%, benefiting instead from a corporate tax rate that is 20% lower.
Currently, Cha Eun-woo's team has filed an appeal against the National Tax Service's decision.
Cha Eun-woo is a South Korean singer, actor, and member of the boy group Astro, known for his roles in "ID: Gangnam Beauty" and "True Beauty," among others. Since his debut, he has attracted countless fans with his striking looks and has been dubbed a "face genius."
Related News:
South Korea's three major airports ban one item in checked luggage, causing long inspection lines
OMG | Danish MEP blasts Trump 'f**k off', interrupted by vice-president during speech
Comment