Singer and actor Cha Eun-woo paid roughly 13 billion won in full regarding allegations of tax evasion, and contrary to criticisms that "he held out and paid only when he had no choice," different facts have been reported. Cha Eun-woo's side issued a statement saying "we never postponed payment." Attention is also focused on his next moves after the controversy is settled.
Cha Eun-woo's side said on the 9th, "Some adjustments are scheduled according to the National Tax Service refund procedure, but the actual burden is at the level of about 13 billion won," and "all personal income taxes have been fully paid."
Earlier, Cha Eun-woo was subject to a tax audit by the National Tax Service over a transaction structure with a family-owned corporation, and it became a major shock when it was revealed that he initially received a notice of additional tax in the 20 billion won range. After undergoing pre-taxation qualification reviews and adjustment procedures, the actual amount paid was settled at the 13 billion won level.
In particular, some criticized, "Didn't he stall and eventually pay?" but according to Cha Eun-woo's side, this differs somewhat from the facts. While the pre-tax qualification review procedure was underway, the final tax amount had not been confirmed, so prepayment itself was impossible before issuance of the bill. After waiting for this, he received the recent bill and paid it immediately.
In this context, Cha Eun-woo bowed his head in an apology letter, saying, "I respect the National Tax Service's procedures and results and have paid all related taxes," and "I will not evade for any reason."
In this regard, the industry is also paying attention to the background of why Cha Eun-woo chose swift payment rather than additional legal disputes. With the Netflix series "Wonderfuls" scheduled to be released in May, and with him as a lead actor, it is suggested that he early resolved the controversy to minimize risk. In fact, the production team and the industry, which were preparing for the work's release, also feel relieved that the matter was quickly resolved.
Public opinion has not completely turned around. Because the massive size of the additional tax of 13 billion won itself is by no means light, the question continues as to how Cha Eun-woo will responsibly conclude this matter and restore trust in his future activities.
As to what attitude and moves Cha Eun-woo will show next, attention is focused on whether previously curtailed promotion and marketing schedules can be normalized again.
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]