Cha Eun Woo’s Photo Exhibition in Tokyo Moves Forward Despite Ongoing Tax Controversy

Cha Eun Woo, member of ASTRO and actor, will hold a photo exhibition in Japan, marking his first public project since the recent tax controversy surrounding him surfaced earlier this year.

According to local sources, the exhibition titled “Afterimage” will take place in Tokyo’s Ginza district from March 28 to May 12.

A project planned long before the controversy

The exhibition will showcase behind-the-scenes photographs of the star, offering fans a closer look at Cha Eun Woo’s visuals and artistic image.

However, his agency clarified that the project had already been arranged long before the controversy began.

The company explained that the exhibition contract was signed in August 2024, and the event is moving forward according to the original schedule.

Because Cha Eun Woo is currently serving in the military, he will not attend the exhibition in person.

Promotional image for the 'Afterimage' photo exhibition by Cha Eun-woo. The image features a young man in a light blue striped shirt, standing amidst greenery, with a soft expression and styled hair. Exhibition details are included, indicating the location and dates in Tokyo.
Cha Eun Woo / Official Company

First event since tax allegations surfaced

The exhibition has drawn attention because it is the first official event connected to Cha Eun Woo since the tax issue became public.

In January, South Korea’s National Tax Service reportedly imposed over 20 billion KRW (approximately $15 million) in additional taxes related to income classification.

Authorities determined that Cha Eun Woo had signed a management contract with a one-person agency established by his mother, which allegedly allowed income to be taxed under the corporate tax rate rather than the higher personal income tax rate.

Tax officials interpreted this arrangement as possible tax avoidance.

Cha Eun Woo with black hair wearing a brown coat and a black turtleneck, posing and pointing to his face in front of a beige background.
Cha Eun Woo / News1

Cha Eun Woo responds to the controversy

After the issue surfaced, Cha Eun Woo released a statement acknowledging the situation.

He said he would reflect on whether he had been sufficiently responsible regarding his tax obligations as a Korean citizen.

The actor also stated that he would respect the final decision of authorities and take responsibility accordingly.

At the same time, he has requested a pre-tax review, formally challenging the tax authority’s interpretation.

Cha Eun Woo with dark hair wearing a white sweater poses with his arms crossed in front of a modern vehicle, set against a dark backdrop with the word 'PHARMA' visible.
Cha Eun Woo / News1

Fans still showing support

Despite the controversy, many fans remain interested in the upcoming exhibition.

The “Afterimage” event is expected to feature a series of curated photographs capturing Cha Eun Woo’s visuals and career moments, giving fans a chance to experience a different side of the star while he continues his military service.

As the situation surrounding the tax dispute continues to unfold, the Tokyo exhibition will likely remain a topic of discussion among both fans and the public.