Chanu's military band assignment is under review after a tax evasion scandal. The Defense Ministry is investigating the situation.
January/29/2026 11:39Related Groups & Members
Due to a tax evasion suspicion involving ASTRO's Chanu amounting to about 20 billion won (approximately 2 billion yen), a petition has been submitted requesting a review of his current military service assignment, and it has become clear that the South Korean Ministry of National Defense has begun formal procedures. On the 28th, a petition requesting a 'review of Chanu's military band assignment' was accepted by the National Petition System. The Ministry of National Defense has assigned the case to the inspection office of the Defense Support Command, to which Chanu belongs. A representative from the Ministry's National Petition System explained, 'The inspection office of the assigned unit has been designated as the processing department, and after confirming the facts and judging the necessity, a response or action is expected to be taken.' An official from the inspection office of the Defense Support Command also stated, 'The authority regarding assignments lies with the respective commander,' adding that 'after a preliminary review by the personnel department, it is expected to proceed swiftly in accordance with the prescribed procedures.' This indicates that a full review of the appropriateness of Chanu's military band assignment is likely to begin. The petitioner raised concerns about the military band being a unit that plays a symbolic role in high-profile government and presidential events. Previously, the YouTube channel 'KFNplus,' operated by the Defense Public Relations Agency, made videos featuring Chanu private. He had appeared four times as a storyteller in the series 'Stories from the Military of That Day' since the end of December last year, but all related videos were deleted after the tax evasion allegations arose.
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ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo is under investigation for alleged tax evasion amounting to 20 billion won. His agency, Fantagio, confirmed a tax reassessment of 8.2 billion won, correcting earlier reports. Fantagio stated the main issue is whether a corporation established by Cha's mother is subject to taxation and plans to clarify legal interpretations while ensuring proper management of their artists moving forward.
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo's company was investigated for tax issues by the Ganghwa County office, which coincided with its relocation to Seoul. Cha Eun-woo apologized for causing public concern and clarified that his military enlistment was not to evade tax issues. His agency stated they are cooperating with the investigation and will take necessary actions based on the findings.
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo is embroiled in a tax evasion scandal involving 20 billion won. His agency, Fantagio, has also been hit with an 8.5 billion won tax penalty. Cha Eun-woo stated he did not intend to avoid the tax investigation while serving in the military. Fantagio expressed responsibility and urged against speculation.
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ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo is embroiled in tax evasion allegations, resulting in the removal of his videos from the military's YouTube channel and advertisements from brands like Shinhan Bank. The controversy centers on a company linked to his mother, deemed a paper company by tax authorities. Cha Eun-woo is cooperating with investigations and has expressed willingness to accept the final judgment.
Arden Cho, who voiced a character in 'KPOP Girls! Demon Hunters,' publicly supported Cha Eun-woo following his apology about a tax issue. Cha Eun-woo expressed regret for causing concern and promised to handle tax matters responsibly. Their friendship has grown through various projects, and Cho previously sent him encouragement before his military service.
fantagio has apologized for the concerns raised about Cha Eun-woo, acknowledging their responsibility in the matter. They are currently investigating tax-related issues in accordance with authorities and will take necessary actions based on legal outcomes. They urge against spreading unverified claims and will strengthen their management systems to prevent future issues.
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo publicly apologizes for causing worry and disappointment due to tax investigation issues. He reflects on his responsibilities as a citizen and expresses regret over misunderstandings related to his military enlistment. He commits to addressing tax matters sincerely and accepting any consequences from the authorities.
Cha Eun-woo of ASTRO is being investigated for tax evasion involving 20 billion won, related to a family business established by his mother. The local government is examining the company's operations and potential illegalities, including tax structure and compliance issues. Cha Eun-woo previously faced scrutiny from the tax office for similar allegations, with significant tax penalties imposed. His agency has requested a review of the tax office's decisions regarding the case.
