ASTRO‘s Cha Eunwoo was previously wrapped up in tax evasion allegations. The National Tax Service had begun investigations on the star with regards to a hefty unpaid sum of ₩20.0 billion KRW (about $13.8 million USD)

On January 26, 2026, he personally issued a statement on his Instagram to apologize.

“Hello, this is Cha Eunwoo.

I sincerely bow my head in apology for causing so many people worry and disappointment due to the recent various matters involving me.

Through this incident, I have been deeply reflecting on myself, as to whether my attitude towards the duty of paying taxes as a citizen of the Republic of Korea had been strict enough.

Over the past few days, I spent time in self-reflection as I considered where to even begin, so that even a little bit of my remorse could be conveyed to those who were hurt because of me.

I worried that a long statement might sound like an excuse, or that it could instead cause further fatigue, but I ultimately came to believe that it is my responsibility to speak up personally and apologize with regards to this matter.

I am currently writing this after finishing my daily duties within the military unit. Although I am serving in the military at present, this was by no means an intentional choice to avoid this controversy. Last year, circumstances arose where I could no longer delay my enlistment, and as a result, I entered the military without being able to fully conclude the tax investigation procedures.”

“However, I fully acknowledge that this misunderstanding also stemmed from my own shortcomings, and I feel a deep sense of responsibility for it. If I were not in the position of a soldier, I would want to personally visit each and every person who was affected by this incident, bow my head, and apologize directly. It is with all my heart that I am writing this.

For the long 11 years that have gone by, someone like me, who has always had more shortcomings than strengths, has been able to stand in the undeserved position of “Cha Eunwoo” solely because of the abundant love and support you have given me. That is why, I am unspeakably sorry for having caused such great hurt and exhaustion to all those who believed in and supported someone so lacking, to the many people I have worked with, when I should have been repaying them instead.

I will faithfully cooperate with all future tax-related investigative procedures. Furthermore, I will humbly accept the final judgment made by the relevant authorities and undetake all responsibilities that follow.

Going forward, I will look upon myself with even greater strictness, and with a heavier sense of responsibility, living in a way that seeks to repay the love I have received.

Once again, I sincerely apologize for causing concern.

January 26, 2026
Cha Eunwoo”

You may read more about the incident below.