Singer and actor Cha Eun-woo, who was caught up in a controversy over tax payments, will remain in his post with the Republic of Korea Army Band.

In its response to a complaint filed through e-People on the 6th, the Ministry of National Defense said that Private Cha Eun-woo is currently continuing to serve in his Army Band post, adding that there are no plans to change his assignment or impose disciplinary action.

The ministry determined that the case did not meet the grounds for reassignment under Article 14 of the Ministry of National Defense’s directive on soldier personnel management. It also explained that it did not consider the matter one that required discipline at this stage, and that no separate relocation measures had been reviewed.

Earlier, a complainant filed an e-People petition in January asking for a review of whether Cha Eun-woo’s assignment to the Army Band was appropriate. In response, the inspection office of the Service Support Group said there had been no discussions or decisions regarding a change in his post, and that the alleged tax evasion was not subject to an internal military investigation.

After it was later reported in April that Cha Eun-woo’s side had apologized for the tax-related controversy and paid all outstanding taxes, the complainant filed another petition, arguing that a review was needed in light of the symbolic nature of the Army Band post and its public influence.

However, after reviewing the relevant rules and the current situation, the Ministry of National Defense decided to keep Cha Eun-woo in his existing post.

Cha Eun-woo was reportedly subjected to an intensive tax audit by the Fourth Bureau of the Seoul Regional Tax Office last year and was notified of additional taxes totaling in the tens of billions of won. The National Tax Service determined that a company established by his mother had operated by signing service contracts with his agency Fantagio, and classified the company as a paper company before issuing the notice.

As the controversy grew, Cha Eun-woo said on his social media, “As a citizen of the Republic of Korea, I am deeply reflecting on whether I have been strict enough in fulfilling my tax obligations,” and added, “I will humbly accept the outcome according to the final decision and do my part responsibly.”

Cha Eun-woo, who debuted in 2016 as a member of ASTRO, gained wide popularity while pursuing both singing and acting. He enlisted in July last year and is currently serving in the Republic of Korea Army Band.