Cha Eun-woo's family-run eel restaurant is under scrutiny amid tax evasion claims, but his agency clarifies its independence.
February/4/2026 19:16Related Groups & Members
Amid allegations of tax evasion against ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo, his agency has distanced itself from suspicions surrounding the eel restaurant reportedly run by his family. A representative from Fantagio stated today (the 4th) to My Daily, 'The currently operating 'Ojeongyeon Cheongdam' is a completely separate corporation from 'Ojeongyeon Charcoal Grilled Eel' located in Ganghwa Island,' and clarified that 'Ojeongyeon Cheongdam' is operated by Fantagio M, a 100% subsidiary of Fantagio. Previously, claims had been raised in online communities that the eel restaurant 'Ojeongyeon Charcoal Grilled Eel,' run by Cha Eun-woo's mother, had relocated to Cheongdam-dong in Gangnam, Seoul, at the end of last year and reopened under the name 'Ojeongyeon Cheongdam.' In response, Fantagio explained that the restaurant in Ganghwa Island and the one in Cheongdam-dong are entirely different entities and are unrelated to Cha Eun-woo's family. They also stated that the view that the restaurant moved to Cheongdam-dong after the tax evasion controversy is not true. The core of the controversy lies in the existence of the corporation established by Cha Eun-woo's mother. Fantagio has explained that this corporation entered into a business consignment contract related to entertainment activities with the agency, but the National Tax Service has determined that actual service provision could not be confirmed, labeling it a so-called 'paper company.' During this process, it was revealed that the address of the corporation matched that of the eel restaurant in Ganghwa Island, leading to an expansion of the suspicions. The corporation initially had its headquarters in Gimpo, Gyeonggi Province, but moved its address to Ganghwa Island in Incheon in 2022, and then relocated again to an office in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam, Seoul at the end of last year. Last year, Cha Eun-woo was notified of a tax reassessment amounting to about 20 billion won (over 20 million yen) after an investigation by the Seoul Regional Tax Office's Investigation Bureau 4. This is the largest case of tax reassessment among celebrities, causing significant repercussions.
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January was eventful in the Korean entertainment scene, featuring BTS's comeback announcement and world tour dates, 2PM's Taecyeon revealing his fiancée's name during a live broadcast, BLACKPINK's Jennie's controversial birthday party, and ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo facing a tax scandal while in military service.
The Korean Taxpayer Alliance has defended ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo regarding a tax evasion allegation of approximately 20 billion won, arguing that presumption of innocence should be upheld. They criticized media assumptions about his mother's company being a shell corporation and highlighted the importance of taxpayer rights and proper legal processes.
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.
ASTRO's Chanu faces scrutiny over a 20 billion won tax evasion scandal, prompting a petition for a review of his military band assignment. The Defense Ministry has initiated formal procedures to investigate the matter, emphasizing the symbolic role of the military band in high-profile events. Chanu's related content has been removed from platforms following the allegations.
Sungkwan from SEVENTEEN expressed his feelings for the late Moonbin of ASTRO by wishing him a happy birthday on social media. He shared a video of Moonbin blowing out candles on a cake, thanking Sungkwan for preparing it. Moonbin passed away on April 19, 2023, at age 25. A tribute song was released by 22 artists, including members of ASTRO and SEVENTEEN, to commemorate him.
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.
