ASTRO Cha Eunwoo Faces ₩20.0 Billion Tax Evasion Allegations Over Mother’s Company

A shadow has fallen over one of K-pop's most pristine reputations. ASTRO member and actor Cha Eunwoo is allegedly entangled in a massive tax scandal involving approximately ₩20.0 billion KRW ($13.7 million USD). As of January 23, 2026, reports suggest the issue stems from a private company established by his mother, raising serious questions about financial transparency.

The Core of Cha Eunwoo Tax Evasion Scandal 2026

The controversy centers on a corporation managed by Cha Eunwoo's mother, which critics claim may have been used to evade taxes on the star's substantial earnings. According to Koreaboo, the company is accused of misreporting income to avoid higher tax brackets. The scale of the alleged evasion—around ₩20 billion—is staggering even by industry standards.

Public scrutiny intensified when the registered address of the company was revealed to be an eel restaurant. Photos of Cha Eunwoo visiting the same restaurant have since resurfaced, sparking debate over whether the business was a mere paper company used for financial maneuvering rather than legitimate operations.

Public Backlash and Future Outlook in South Korea

The reaction in Korea has been one of shock, given the artist's usually impeccable public image. While tax authorities haven't released a final verdict, the association with a family-run entity is drawing comparisons to previous celebrity financial scandals. Fans and netizens alike are demanding a clear explanation, as the 'face genius' brand faces its toughest challenge yet.