Cha Eun Woo has directly addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding allegations of tax evasion amounting to 20 billion won. On the evening of January 26, the actor and ASTRO member shared a handwritten apology letter on his personal Instagram account, drawing significant public attention.
In the statement, Cha Eun Woo expressed deep remorse for disappointing fans and the public , stating that he is seriously reflecting on whether he had fulfilled his tax obligations responsibly as a South Korean citizen. He emphasized that his current military service should not be misunderstood as an attempt to evade investigation.
“I sincerely bow my head in apology for causing concern and disappointment due to the recent issue,” he wrote. “Through this incident, I am deeply reflecting on my attitude toward fulfilling my duty to pay taxes.”
The 1997-born star also clarified that his enlistment was unavoidable and unrelated to the controversy. According to his explanation, he had reached a point last year where postponing military service was no longer possible, leading him to enlist before tax-related procedures were fully concluded.
“I am currently fulfilling my military duty. This was absolutely not a deliberate choice to avoid controversy,” he stated, adding that he would have personally apologized to those affected if not for his status as an active-duty soldier.
Cha Eun Woo further acknowledged that the situation stemmed from his own shortcomings and took full responsibility for the misunderstanding. He credited his 11-year career and continued success to the unwavering support of fans, expressing regret for causing emotional distress to those who trusted him.
“Hello, this is Cha Eun Woo. I sincerely bow my head and apologize for causing so much concern and disappointment due to the recent issue. Through this incident, I am deeply reflecting on myself and seriously examining whether my attitude toward fulfilling my duty to pay taxes, as a citizen of South Korea, was sufficiently responsible.
Over the past few days, I have spent a great deal of time reflecting and struggling with where and how to begin, in hopes of conveying even a part of my remorse to those whom I have hurt. I was also worried that if I wrote too much, my words might be misunderstood as excuses or cause further fatigue. However, I decided that in this situation, the right thing for me to do was to speak up directly and offer an apology.
I am writing this letter after completing my duties for the day at my unit. I am currently fulfilling my mandatory military service. This was absolutely not a deliberate choice to avoid the controversies surrounding this matter. Last year, I was 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 stemmed from my own shortcomings, I am deeply aware of my responsibility. If I were not serving as an active-duty soldier, I would have wanted to personally visit each individual affected by this situation and bow my head in apology. With those feelings in mind, I am writing these words with utmost sincerity.
For the past 11 years, someone like me—who has more shortcomings than strengths—has been able to stand in the position of ‘Cha Eun Woo,’ far beyond what I deserve, solely because of the boundless love and support from everyone. Because of that, despite not yet being able to repay the trust and support of those who believed in me, as well as the many people I have worked with, I have instead caused great hurt and fatigue. I feel truly and deeply sorry, to the point that words cannot fully express it.
Going forward, I will cooperate honestly with all procedures related to taxes. At the same time, I will humbly accept the final decision of the relevant authorities and fully fulfill all responsibilities corresponding to that outcome. From now on, I will reflect on myself even more strictly and live with a stronger sense of responsibility, hoping that I may be able to repay even a small part of the love I have received.
Once again, I sincerely apologize for causing concern to everyone.
January 26, 2026.
Cha Eun Woo.”
As the investigation continues, Cha Eun Woo has stated that he will accept any ruling from the authorities and comply fully with all obligations arising from the case.
Sources: Instagram