ASTRO member and actor Cha Eun Woo’s representatives have addressed rumors about his potential role in the drama “Seorabeol Knife.”
A spokesperson from Cha’s agency, Fantagio, told News1 on Tuesday that the project is among those under consideration.
“Seorabeol Knife” will be helmed by director Jang Tae-yoo, known for tvN’s “The Chef of the Tyrant,” which hit a series-high 17.1% viewership (Nielsen Korea, nationwide paid households), and SBS’s “My Love from the Star,” which peaked at 28.1% (Nielsen Korea, nationwide).
Cha Eun Woo is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service. He enlisted as an active-duty soldier last July and is scheduled to be discharged in January 2027. With about six months left in his service, his swift consideration of future projects has sparked considerable interest in the industry.
Earlier this year, Cha found himself embroiled in controversy over a substantial tax reassessment. In January, reports surfaced that he had received a notice for approximately 20 billion KRW (about 14.1 million USD) following a National Tax Service audit. The investigation centered on income distribution through a single-person agency registered under his mother’s name. After acknowledging some instances of double taxation, the final reassessment was adjusted to around 13 billion KRW (about 9.2 million USD). Cha reportedly settled the full amount in April.
Despite the payment, Cha maintains that the tax assessment is unwarranted. On August 2, he filed an appeal with the Tax Tribunal. His agency told News1 that they’ve initiated the appeal process through proper legal channels to seek a fair judgment. As the matter is ongoing, they’re unable to provide further details at this time.