Singer-actor Cha Eun-woo files appeal after paying 13 bln won in taxes

SEOUL, Aug. 2 (Yonhap) -- Cha Eun-woo, the popular singer-actor, has appealed an additional tax assessment of about 13 billion won (US$9 million) imposed by the National Tax Service (NTS), the agency representing him announced on Sunday. The singer submitted the appeal to the Tax Tribunal last month, contending that the NTS' decision to impose the tax increase was unjust, according to Fantagio, Cha's management company.

The appeal is made in accordance with the statutory procedures, the agency explained, without offering additional specifics. A taxpayer is permitted to lodge an appeal with the tribunal within 90 days of receiving a tax bill if they believe it to be unlawful or unfair. In January, Cha reportedly received notification from the tax service regarding the additional income tax assessments, which exceeded 20 billion won, sparking suspicions of tax evasion.

Cha clarified in April that he had settled all related taxes to prevent further confusion, emphasizing his respect for the NTS' procedures and the eventual outcome.