Entertainment
Hallyuwood
Cha Eun-woo makes rare public appearance while serving in military
Cha Eun-woo makes rare public appearance while serving in military
One of South Korea's biggest stars, Cha Eun-woo, made a rare public appearance this week, taking the stage at a military concert while fulfilling his mandatory military service.
Videos shared online showed the actor and singer performing at the "2026 Ministry of National Defense Military Band Battalion Regular Concert-Heritage," held on July 23 at the National Gugak Center Yeakdang Hall in Seoul.
Cha Eun-woo, whose real name is Lee Dong-min, is currently serving as a corporal in the Republic of Korea Army's military band. He enlisted on July 25 last year and is scheduled to be discharged on Jan. 27.
His appearance quickly drew attention online, with photos from backstage also surfacing after traditional Korean instrument player Shin Sua shared snapshots with the star on Instagram.
"With Corporal Lee Dong-min. I've liked him since my first year of high school. It really came about through a spontaneous meeting," she wrote.
"It was such a huge honor and joy to be able to stand on the same stage as him. Thank you so much for taking a photo with me and letting me take one."
Public appearances by top Korean celebrities become scarce once they begin mandatory military service, making concerts such as these among the few opportunities for fans to catch a glimpse of them before they complete their enlistment.
Earlier this year, Cha Eun-woo also made headlines over a tax dispute involving about 20 billion won (approximately $13.6 million) in additional taxes.
He later apologized, saying he respected the National Tax Service's findings and had already paid the full amount.
"I respect the procedures and results of the National Tax Service, and to prevent further confusion, I have paid all relevant taxes. I will faithfully participate in the remaining procedures as well," he said.
