Cha Eun-woo Issues Public Apology Amid Tax Controversy: “I Take Full Responsibility”

South Korean actor and singer Cha Eun-woo has broken his silence regarding recent tax evasion allegations, issuing a heartfelt public apology and acknowledging his responsibility as a citizen and public figure. The statement, shared via a black image on his official Instagram account on January 26, has quickly drawn widespread attention and reaction.

In the message, Cha Eun-woo expressed deep remorse for the concern and disappointment caused by the controversy, bowing his head in apology to fans and the public. He admitted that the situation forced him into serious self-reflection, particularly regarding whether he had fulfilled his tax obligations with sufficient awareness and responsibility. According to the artist, the past several days were spent struggling with how to convey his sincerity without appearing defensive or causing further hurt, ultimately deciding that a direct and transparent apology was necessary.

Cha also addressed speculation surrounding the timing of his military enlistment, emphasizing that his current service is not an attempt to evade scrutiny. He explained that his enlistment proceeded as scheduled because it could no longer be postponed, even though the tax investigation was still underway at the time. Acknowledging that the misunderstandings and controversy stem from his own shortcomings, he stated that he fully accepts responsibility for the situation.

Writing after completing his daily duties in the military, Cha Eun-woo conveyed regret that he is unable to meet those affected in person. He noted that, under different circumstances, he would have wished to apologize face-to-face to everyone who felt hurt or betrayed. Instead, he chose to communicate with what he described as the utmost sincerity through his written statement.

Reflecting on his eleven-year career in the entertainment industry, Cha expressed gratitude for the consistent love and trust he has received from fans, colleagues, and collaborators. He described the emotional weight of knowing that his actions had caused pain and exhaustion to those who supported him throughout his journey, calling his own immaturity a source of deep regret.

Looking ahead, Cha Eun-woo pledged full cooperation with authorities and confirmed that he will complete all required tax-related procedures. He stated that he will humbly accept the final conclusions reached by the relevant agencies and fulfill all responsibilities that arise from those decisions. The artist also vowed to hold himself to higher standards moving forward, promising to live with a stronger sense of accountability and to become someone worthy of the public’s continued support.

He concluded the statement with another apology, acknowledging the worry and disappointment felt by many, and signed the message simply with his name.

As the investigation continues, Cha Eun-woo’s public response marks a significant moment in the unfolding situation, signaling accountability while placing his future in the hands of the authorities and public judgment.

The male artist updated his Instagram with a black photo:
“Hello, I am Cha Eun Woo.
Recently, due to many incidents involving me, I have caused many people worry and disappointment. I bow my head and offer my sincere apologies to everyone.
Regarding this incident, as a citizen of the Republic of Korea, I have seriously reflected on whether my awareness and responsibility in fulfilling my tax obligations have been sufficient and proper, and I have taken time to deeply contemplate.
Throughout the past few days, I have been very worried about where to begin to convey my sincerity to those who have been hurt by me.
I also feared that if I wrote in a clumsy way Regarding this matter, these words might be misinterpreted as justification, or even cause further distress. However, after much thought, I believe that directly speaking out and apologizing for this incident is something I absolutely must do.

Currently, I am serving in the military and writing these lines after completing my daily schedule. Although I am currently serving my mandatory military service, this is absolutely not an attempt to avoid or evade this controversy.

Because I could no longer postpone my enlistment, I was forced to enlist while the tax investigation was still ongoing.

However, I am also fully aware that this is a consequence of my own shortcomings, and I am seriously acknowledging my responsibility for the misunderstandings that have arisen.

If I weren’t a soldier, I would have wished to personally meet each person affected by this incident to offer my sincere apologies. With all sincerity, I write these lines.

Throughout Eleven years of activity – a long time – and despite many shortcomings, I’ve been able to stand firm as “Cha Eun Woo” today thanks to the love and support that everyone has generously given me.

Therefore, I feel deeply remorseful and heartbroken that my immaturity has caused profound hurt and exhaustion to those who have always trusted, supported, and accompanied me, as well as all those I work with. I truly don’t know what more to say than to offer my sincere apologies.

In the future, I will seriously cooperate and fully complete all tax-related procedures. At the same time, I will humbly accept the final conclusions from the relevant authorities and fulfill all responsibilities associated with those results.

From now on, I will critically examine myself, live with a heavier sense of responsibility, and strive to be worthy of the love everyone has given me.

Once again, I sincerely apologize for causing everyone worry. Worried and disappointed.
January 26, 2026
Cha Eun Woo.”