Fantagio Denies Tax Evasion Claims Involving Cha Eun Woo

Published January 24, 2026 09:00

Nigora Umarova

Nigora Umarova

International Department Journalist n.umarova@kursiv.media
Fantagio Denies Tax Evasion Claims Involving Cha Eun Woo
Photo: The Korea Herald

Cha Eun Woo’s agency Fantagio has issued an official response to reports alleging the singer and actor was involved in large-scale tax evasion.

On January 22, a media report claimed that Cha, a member of ASTRO, was investigated last year by Investigation Bureau 4 of the Seoul Regional Tax Office on suspicion of tax evasion. The report said the National Tax Service informed him of an additional tax assessment exceeding 20 bn won, or about $13.6 mln, covering income tax and other levies.

Corporation A

According to the report, tax authorities questioned the structure of Cha’s earnings. Although he was already signed to an agency, he was alleged to have used a separate family-run company, known as Corporation A, which was established by his mother. The report claimed that a service agreement was signed between the parties and that income was divided among Fantagio, Corporation A and Cha himself, resulting in reduced tax payments.

The National Tax Service reportedly determined that Corporation A did not provide meaningful services and classified it as a so-called paper company. Based on this assessment, authorities concluded that Cha had failed to pay more than 20 bn won in income tax.

Fantagio’s statement

Fantagio denied the claims in a statement, saying the central question is whether the company established by Cha’s mother qualifies as an entity subject to substantive taxation.

«Nothing has been finally confirmed or officially notified at this time, and we plan to actively clarify the matter in accordance with lawful procedures,» the agency said.

The statement added that Cha and his tax representatives will cooperate fully to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. Fantagio also said Cha will continue to fulfil his tax reporting duties and legal obligations as a citizen.

Cha Eun Woo has been serving in the Army Military Band since July last year. He is scheduled to be discharged on January 27, 2027.

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