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Hallyuwood
Korean star Cha Eun-woo addresses tax evasion controversy: I will accept final decision
Korean star Cha Eun-woo addresses tax evasion controversy: I will accept final decision
Korean actor Cha Eun-woo, a member of K-pop group Astro, has issued a statement about his tax evasion controversy.
Earlier, Korea’s National Tax Service (NTS) notified Cha Eun-woo about his 20 billion won (about $13.6 million) surcharge due to a corporation set up by his mother, described as the largest tax evasion fine imposed on a celebrity.
Cha Eun-woo is currently fulfilling his military service.
In his case, his mother, Choi, established a corporation. Cha Eun-woo is signed under Fantagio agency.
Fantagio and his mother’s corporation signed a service contract to support the star’s entertainment activities. Since then, his income was divided among Fantagio, the corporation and himself.
The report added that the NTX determined that his mother’s corporation was a “paper company” that did not actually provide services.
In the statement posted on Instagram, Cha Eun-woo said, “I sincerely bow my head and apologize for the concern and disappointment I have caused many people due to recent events related to me.”
“This incident has led me to deeply reflect on myself, wondering whether I have been sufficiently strict in my approach to tax paying as a citizen of the Republic of Korea,” he said.
The 28-year-old star added, “Over the past few days, I have spent time reflecting, wondering what I should say first to convey my apology, even if only a little, to those who have been hurt by me.”
“I was worried that my detailed writing might sound like an excuse or even cause you to feel tired, but I have come to the conclusion that it is my duty to personally address this matter and offer my apology,” he said.
He added, “I am currently writing this after completing my daily duties in the military. While I am currently serving in the military, it was by no means a deliberate choice to avoid this controversy. Last year, I was unable to postpone my enlistment any longer, so I enlisted without completing the tax investigation process.”
“However, this misunderstanding stemmed from my own shortcomings, and I deeply feel the responsibility. If I were not a soldier, I would personally visit each and every one of you who were affected by this incident and bow my head in apology. That's why I am writing this with all my heart,” he wrote.
He explained, “Over the past 11 years, I, who have had more shortcomings than I have, have been able to reach the undeserved position of ‘Cha Eun-woo’ thanks to your unwavering love and support. Therefore, while I may not be able to repay the gratitude of all those who believed in me and supported me, and the many people I have worked with, I feel inexpressibly sorry for causing such great pain and exhaustion.”
The actor-idol said, “I will faithfully participate in all future tax-related procedures. Furthermore, I will humbly accept the final decision made by the relevant authorities, and fulfill my responsibilities accordingly.”
“Going forward, I will reflect more rigorously on myself and live with a greater sense of responsibility, to repay the love I have received. Once again, I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused,” he said.