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).
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Cha Eun-woo from ASTRO has been spotted during his military service, performing at a military band event. This is his first public appearance since tax evasion allegations surfaced in January. He has recently paid a fine of approximately 13 billion won and expressed his commitment to transparency in his activities. His Netflix series 'Wonderfools' is set to release on November 15.
'Wonder Fools', a Netflix series starring Park Eun-bin and ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo, follows quirky characters with superpowers fighting villains. The show premieres on May 15, showcasing their unique abilities and humorous interactions in a world where they must adapt to their newfound powers.
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The Netflix series "Wonder Fools," starring Park Eun-bin and ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo, will premiere on May 15. Set in 1999, it follows a group of quirky characters who accidentally gain superpowers and must fight against villains threatening their town. The series promises a unique blend of comedy and adventure, showcasing the characters' humorous struggles with their newfound abilities.
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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.
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