Fantagio issues an apology regarding tax issues involving artists Cha Eun-woo and Kim Sung-ho, promising to improve management practices.
April/9/2026 12:11Related Groups & Members
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo, Kim Sung-ho's agency Fantagio apologized regarding the tax issues of its artists. Fantagio recently published an apology on its official website stating, 'We deeply apologize for causing concern to many due to the recent tax issues involving our company and artists.' They continued, 'We take this matter seriously, not as a mere individual case, but as a problem stemming from a lack of management responsibility on the part of the agency.' They acknowledged, 'As an agency that should manage and support the overall activities of artists, we solemnly recognize and reflect on our failure to adequately inspect this matter in advance and the deficiencies in our management process.' Furthermore, they explained, 'In response, Fantagio is currently comprehensively reviewing its internal management system and decision-making processes, strengthening pre-verification procedures including tax and legal considerations, and promoting substantial improvements.' They concluded, 'Since Fantagio operates based on people's trust, we deeply reflect on this matter and will respond with responsible changes.' Cha Eun-woo was investigated by the Seoul Regional Tax Office's 4th Bureau for tax evasion suspicion before his enlistment last July and received a notification for back taxes exceeding 20 billion won (approximately 2 billion yen). This is the largest amount of back taxes imposed on a celebrity to date. After being notified of the back taxes, Cha Eun-woo filed an objection to the National Tax Service's decision and requested a pre-tax suitability review. Actor Kim Sung-ho also recently faced tax evasion allegations related to his personal agency operated as a family corporation during his previous agency contract. He stated through Fantagio, 'As a proactive measure to correct my ignorance of corporate management at that time, I submitted the usage details of past corporate cards. I have returned all salaries to my family and corporate vehicles. I have already completed additional payments of personal income tax in addition to the corporate tax already paid for the amounts settled through that corporation. I am in the process of dissolving the corporation, and the administrative procedures will soon be completed.' Yesterday (8th), Cha Eun-woo reported through his Instagram that he has paid the full amount of the imposed back taxes. - ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo pays full back taxes exceeding 20 billion won... reports himself on SNS, 'All responsibility is mine.' - ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo's Netflix 'Wonderfools' to be released as scheduled in the second quarter (official).
Related Articles
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo has paid a tax penalty of approximately 130 billion won, contrary to earlier reports of 200 billion won. His agency stated that part of the payment will be adjusted through a tax refund process. Cha Eun-woo apologized to fans for the confusion and is currently serving in the army, with a discharge date set for January 27, 2027.
A petition has been submitted requesting the South Korean Ministry of Defense to reassess ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo's placement in the military band. The petitioner argues that this matter should be treated seriously, considering the military's honor and soldiers' morale. Cha Eun-woo recently reported paying a significant tax penalty, prompting the renewed petition for review.
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo has publicly apologized for causing disappointment and confusion regarding his tax issues. He confirmed that he has paid all related taxes and expressed his commitment to handle future matters with greater care. He takes full responsibility for the situation and aims to prevent similar issues in the future.
HYBE has announced the second lineup of 10 artists for the 2026 Weverse Con Festival, taking place in Seoul on June 6-7. The lineup features a diverse range of K-POP artists from different generations, including Jejung and Apink, highlighting their significant contributions to the music scene. Fans can expect exciting performances from both established and emerging talents.
Yoon San-ha celebrated his birthday for the third consecutive year with a sold-out concert in Seoul, showcasing his unique music and heartfelt performances. The event featured a variety of songs, including fan favorites, and included a talk segment that connected him with fans. He expressed gratitude and excitement for future performances, including upcoming shows in Japan.
Netflix's new series 'Wonder Fools' is set to premiere in Q2 2023. The show, featuring characters who gain superpowers in 1999, follows their comedic battles against villains threatening their town. The cast includes Park Eun-bin and ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo, who is currently serving in the military. Amidst tax investigation rumors involving Cha Eun-woo, the production team urges restraint in speculation about the show's release date.
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo will have a photo exhibition titled 'Afterimage' in Tokyo from April 28 to May 12. Although he is currently serving in the military and won't attend, tickets are available for 4000 yen. The exhibition showcases behind-the-scenes photos of his diverse activities. Cha Eun-woo has faced tax controversy but expressed his commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities.
ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo is reportedly under investigation for tax evasion, facing a 20 billion won tax bill linked to his personal corporation. His corporation, which has purchased significant real estate, is suspected of being a paper company to evade higher personal income taxes. His agency, Fantagio, stated they will clarify the legal issues involved.
To combat tax evasion and improve transparency in the entertainment industry, South Korean lawmakers are proposing a new law requiring agencies to report their operations annually. This comes amid controversies involving artists like Cha Eun-woo, who is under investigation for tax issues. The law aims to hold accountable those with criminal records related to tax offenses.
Amid tax avoidance allegations against stars like ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo, the Korean Management Association urges reforms. They argue that the current tax system misinterprets personal corporations as mere tax evasion tools, failing to recognize their legitimate business roles in managing artists' careers and intellectual properties.
