A complaint has been filed requesting a review of the appropriateness of ASTRO member and actor Cha Eun-woo's military band position amid tax evasion allegations.
On the 28th, a netizen submitted a complaint to the Ministry of National Defense via the National Sinmungo, questioning the suitability of Cha Eun-woo's position in the military band.
The complainant argued that military band positions require stricter scrutiny and risk management due to their impact on public trust and soldier morale. They emphasized that the service of high-profile celebrities can significantly affect the military's honor and credibility.
The complainant further stressed the need to reassess the current position to maintain discipline and morale within the unit and prevent the spread of controversy. They confirmed that the complaint had been forwarded to the inspection department of Cha Eun-woo's unit.
Cha Eun-woo enlisted in July last year and has been serving in the Ministry of National Defense's military band, participating in various military promotional activities.
However, following the tax evasion allegations, some videos featuring him on the Ministry of National Defense's YouTube channel 'KFN Plus' have been made private, sparking speculation of potential actions by the ministry.
Before enlisting, Cha Eun-woo reportedly underwent a tax audit in the first half of last year and was notified of a tax imposition of approximately 20 billion KRW. The National Tax Service investigated whether his agency, Fantagio, attempted to apply a lower corporate tax rate through a corporation owned by Cha Eun-woo's mother.
Fantagio explained that the main issue is whether the corporation is subject to taxation and that the tax amount has not been finalized. They plan to clarify the matter through legal procedures.
Cha Eun-woo expressed on social media, "I am deeply reflecting on whether my attitude towards fulfilling my tax obligations as a citizen of Korea was sufficiently strict." He added, "I will humbly accept the final judgment from the relevant authorities and take responsibility accordingly."
Regarding allegations of enlisting to avoid the controversy, he clarified, "It was not an intentional choice to escape the current issue." He explained, "I enlisted because I could no longer postpone my military service, even though the tax audit was not concluded."
Despite the large tax imposition and the involvement of a major law firm, the controversy is expected to continue.
Fantagio released an official statement on the 27th, expressing a heavy sense of responsibility for the controversy involving the company and its artists. They pledged to cooperate with the investigation and take responsibility based on the results, while urging restraint against unfounded speculation and unverified information.
Reporter Min-kyung Lee, Ten Asia 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr