Cha Eun Woo is facing intense criticism for releasing a public apology over his tax evasion controversy on the same day his bandmates were paying tribute to the late Moonbin on his birthday.
On January 26th, ASTRO members took to social media to honor their late bandmate, who would have turned 28.
MJ shared a photo with the caption, “Happy birthday, Bin.” Jinjin expressed his grief, writing, “Happy birthday, my brother. I love you, I miss you. I should have taken more photos of you.” Yoon Sanha also posted a heartfelt tribute: “Happy birthday. I will love you forever.” Moonbin’s sister, Billlie’s Moon Sua, also shared her longing, writing, “Happy birthday, my one and only brother.”
>> Cha Eun Woo Sheds Tears on Stage Following Moonbin’s Passing
However, Cha Eun Woo was notably absent from the public tributes. Instead, he released an official apology statement regarding allegations that he evaded approximately 20 billion won ($13.6 million) in taxes.
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“Although I am currently serving in the military, this was by no means an intentional attempt to evade the ongoing controversy,” Cha wrote. “I will faithfully participate in all future tax-related procedures.”
The timing has sparked outrage among netizens. Many expressed disappointment that Cha, who had previously teared up on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block, saying, “It felt like people were forgetting Moonbin too quickly,” chose this specific day to focus on his legal defense rather than honoring his friend.
Adding to the controversy, news broke the same day that Cha has retained SHIN & KIM LLC, one of Korea’s top five law firms known for handling high-profile cases like the recent NewJeans dispute.
The move has raised eyebrows due to a potential conflict of interest known as “revolving door” hiring. The firm recently recruited Im Sung Bin, the former head of the Seoul Regional Tax Office’s Investigation Bureau 4—the very unit that handled Cha’s tax penalty assessment—as an advisor.
The National Tax Service alleges that Cha attempted to evade income tax (which can reach 45% for high earners) by funneling income through a corporation established by his mother. He has been notified of an additional tax assessment of roughly 20 billion KRW ($13.6 million), the highest ever for a Korean celebrity.
The combination of the tax scandal and the insensitive timing of his statement has turned public opinion sour. Advertisers, including major banks and cosmetic brands, have already begun scrubbing Cha from their campaigns.
Netizens have voiced strong criticism, with comments like, “An apology is one thing, but actions matter more,” and “Other celebrities pay right away, but he hired a lawyer first.” One user added, “This is a case of bringing trouble on yourself.”
>> Cha Eun Woo Dropped by Another Brand as $13.6 Million Tax Scandal Mounts
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