Cha Eun-woo files appeal after paying $9-M in back taxes
K-pop idol and actor Cha Eun-woo has filed an appeal with South Korea's Tax Tribunal after paying about 13 billion won (approximately $9 million) in back taxes.
Korean media outlet Edaily reported that Cha challenged the assessment made by the National Tax Service (NTS) in July, arguing that the 13 billion won tax bill was unfair.
"(Cha Eun-woo) filed a tax appeal in accordance with legal procedures to obtain a legal ruling. As the matter is currently under review, it is difficult to discuss specific details," his agency, Fantagio, said.
The tax issue became public in January after reports revealed that Cha had received a provisional tax assessment of about 20 billion won (roughly $13.8 million) following an audit by the Seoul Regional Tax Office. Authorities suspected he had underpaid income and other taxes through a corporation owned by his mother. After adjustments, the amount of back taxes was reduced to 13 billion won.
In April, Cha announced that he had paid the full amount, saying he respected the National Tax Service's procedures and findings.
"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.
If the Tax Tribunal rejects his appeal, Cha may challenge the decision by filing an administrative lawsuit.
Separately, the Korean Taxpayers' Federation filed a police complaint in February against an unidentified tax official and a reporter, alleging they leaked confidential information related to Cha's tax investigation.
In March, federation president Kim Seon-taek appeared before police for questioning as the complainant in the case.
Cha is currently serving his mandatory military service and is scheduled to be discharged on Jan. 27, 2027.
