New updates on Cha Eun Woo’s military service have surfaced online.
Haegeum (traditional Korean string instrument) performer Shin Soo Ah took to social media on July 24th to share a moment with the star, writing, “With Sergeant Lee Dong Min (Cha Eun-woo’s legal name).” She added, “I’ve been a fan of his since my freshman year of high school, and it all felt so surreal…”
“It was an honor and a pleasure to share the same stage with him,” she continued, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity. “Thank you for letting me take these photos with you!” she wrote, proudly declaring herself a “successful fan.”
The photos show Shin posing for photos with the ASTRO member in the backstage waiting room after a performance, even showing off an autograph from the star.
Despite his short military haircut, Cha Eun Woo proved why he’s famous for his visuals. Fans also took quick notice of his noticeably bulkier physique, pointing out that he seems to have built up quite a bit of muscle during his enlistment.
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The positive update comes several months after the actor made headlines in January, when he received a tax assessment notice from Korea’s National Tax Service regarding back taxes and income tax.
Cha Eun Woo subsequently paid the full 13 billion won ($9 million) final tax bill. While the initial notice was reported to be in the 20 billion won ($14 million) range, the amount was ultimately adjusted after tax authorities recognized portions of the original assessment as double taxation.
Addressing the situation directly at the time, the star took full accountability. “I respect the procedures and findings of the National Tax Service, and I have paid all related taxes to clear up any confusion,” he stated, adding that he would fully cooperate with any remaining administrative steps.
“If there were details I failed to properly examine, the responsibility rests entirely on me. I won’t try to hide behind excuses like ‘I didn’t know’ or blame it on anyone else’s judgment,” he said. “I will approach all future activities with much stricter standards to ensure this never happens again. I will work even harder to become someone who takes complete responsibility for my choices and actions. Once again, I deeply apologize.”
Cha Eun Woo is currently completing his mandatory military service as a member of the military band and is scheduled to be officially discharged in January 2027.
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