ASTRO's Cha Eun-Woo, who is currently facing tax evasion allegations, has issued his first personal statement. Days after his firm Fantagio commented on his alleged involvement in tax fraud of ₩20.0 billion (approximately $13.8 million), the K-pop idol sincerely apologised for causing concern and disappointment over the recent issues.
He expressed regret for hurting fans and colleagues who have supported him over the years and promised to fully cooperate with the authorities. The singer-turned-actor added that he would accept their final decision, take responsibility, and live more carefully going forward.
ASTRO'S Cha Eun-Woo Issues Statement
His statement, shared on Instagram, read, "I sincerely bow my head and apologise for causing concern and disappointment to many people due to various recent matters involving me. Taking this incident as an opportunity, I have deeply reflected on whether my attitude toward my duty as a citizen of the Republic of Korea, particularly regarding tax payments, was sufficiently rigorous."
"For the past few days, I have spent time contemplating and reflecting on what words I should offer first to convey even a little bit of my regret to those who were hurt by me. I was worried that a lengthy explanation might sound like an excuse or even cause further fatigue, but I came to the conclusion that it is my duty to address this matter directly and offer my apology," added the Wonderfool actor.
He said that he spent days thinking about how to express his regret without sounding like he was making excuses. Eun-Woo shared that he was writing the statement after completing his military duties for the day. He further clarified that his enlistment was not meant to avoid the controversy, but happened because it could not be delayed further. 
Admitting that the misunderstanding occurred partly due to his own shortcomings, he continued, "If I were not a soldier at the moment, I would want to personally visit and bow my head to all those who were harmed by this incident. With that sentiment, I am writing this letter with all my sincerity. For the long period of the past 11 years, despite having more shortcomings than possessions, I was able to be in this undeserved position as Cha Eun Woo thanks to your unreserved love and support. Therefore, I am indescribably sorry for not even being able to repay but to have caused great pain and fatigue to all those who believed in and supported me despite my inadequacies and to the many people I have worked with. I will faithfully participate in the tax-related procedures that will procedures in the future."
He concluded by saying that he would reflect on himself more rigorously and live with a greater sense of responsibility.
More About Tax Invasion Case
According to reports in Korean media, Cha Eun-Woo is alleged to have set up a one-person agency to lower his income tax liability. The claims are similar to previous cases involving celebrities such as Sung Si-Kyung and Ok Joo-Hyun, where "one-person agencies" were reportedly used as a method to gain tax advantages.
South Korea's National Tax Service (NTS) has accused the idol of evading taxes amounting to $13.8 million.
This is one of the biggest additional tax assessments ever imposed on a Korean celebrity.
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