Besides Cha Eun Woo, Here’s a List of K-Pop Idols Who Have Been Involved in Tax Cases

Kapanlagi.com - The name Cha Eun Woo is once again a topic of public discussion even while he is serving in the military. Not because of entertainment activities, the idol and actor is instead linked to allegations of massive tax evasion. This issue quickly spread and triggered various reactions from fans and netizens.

This issue reminded the public that tax cases have not been the first time a Korean artist's name has been dragged into controversy. Several K-Pop idols have previously faced similar situations, although with varying investigation outcomes.

Here is a list of K-Pop idols who have been involved in tax cases, ranging from allegations of embezzlement to administrative misunderstandings, based on the chronology of events that have occurred.

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1. Cha Eun Woo Astro

A list of Kpop idols who have been involved in tax cases (credit:instagram.com/eunwo.o_c)

Cha Eun Woo is known to have started his mandatory military service on July 28, 2025. In the midst of his service, the public was shocked by allegations of tax evasion amounting to over 20 billion won. These allegations emerged due to the existence of Cha’s Gallery, which lists Cha Eun Woo as the CEO.

The management structure of the company also involves his parents, raising suspicions of unusual income distribution. In 2022, the CEO position of the company was transferred to his mother. Shortly thereafter, Cha Eun Woo's family established a new limited liability company named LNC with a similar business purpose.

In 2024, LNC was renamed The Annie. This change in the form and structure of the company sparked speculation that the move was made to reduce income tax burdens by up to 45 percent.

2. Lee Jun Ho 2PM

A list of Kpop idols who have been involved in tax cases (credit:instagram.com/le2jh)

Lee Jun Ho 2PM was once embroiled in a tax evasion issue that surfaced to the public in late 2024. In fact, the tax examination had actually been conducted since 2023. The audit was carried out by the Investigation Division 2 of the Seoul Regional Tax Office in September 2023.

The examination was non-regular and was only aimed at individuals with high net worth. In the process, allegations of tax evasion against Lee Jun Ho were not proven. The problem arose due to a misunderstanding between the tax authorities and the tax consultant handling his finances.

After clarification was provided, the case was declared closed. Fans responded with relief as the idol was declared innocent.

3. Rain

A list of Kpop idols who have been involved in tax cases (credit:instagram.com/rain_oppa)

In 2014, Rain or Jung Ji Hoon was linked to allegations of tax evasion. This issue stemmed from reports by South Korean media regarding a prosecutor's investigation. The investigation was said to be related to Rain's income from promotional activities and appearances in China.

The news immediately drew public attention as Rain's name was included among top artists. His agency at the time, Cube DC, firmly denied the allegations. They stated that income reporting had been completed in accordance with regulations in China and South Korea.

The prosecutor's investigation actually focused on Company H, which manages Korean Wave artists' activities abroad. However, due to contractual ties, Rain's name and other artists were also dragged into the news.

4. Popular Q&A About K-Pop Idols

Q: Why do tax cases often involve K-Pop idols?
A: Because large incomes and complex business structures often become targets for tax audits.

Q: Has Cha Eun Woo been proven guilty?
A: Sources only mention allegations and speculations that are still a topic of public discussion.

Q: Do all idols being audited for taxes end up being found guilty?
A: No, some cases like Lee Jun Ho end without violations.

Are agencies responsible for the artists' taxes?
A: Agencies typically manage finances, but responsibility still depends on the contract structure.

Come on, read other articles about K-Pop idols on Kapanlagi.com. If not now, when?

(kpl/vna)