Cha Eun Woo Receives Catholic Baptism with Name 'Apostle John' Following Settlement of 13 Billion Won Tax Penalty

It has been revealed that Cha Eun Woo, a member of the group Astro and an actor, has become an official Catholic after receiving baptism while serving in the military. As he temporarily sets aside his glamorous entertainment activities to fulfill his national defense duties, attention is focused on the fact that he has undergone a personal change in faith.

Cha Eun Woo, currently serving as a corporal in the Army Military Band, reportedly attended a religious ceremony held within the military last month and received baptism. His baptismal name is known to be 'Apostle John,' and his agency officially confirmed, "It is true that Cha Eun Woo received Catholic baptism last June."

Cha Eun Woo enlisted as an active-duty soldier last July and is currently serving in the fanfare unit of the Ministry of National Defense Military Band. Updates on his life in the military are being shared steadily, and he is scheduled to be discharged next January. It appears he is spending his hiatus from entertainment activities focusing on self-management and inner reflection.

Meanwhile, prior to his enlistment, Cha Eun Woo was at the center of social controversy regarding tax issues. During a tax investigation by the 4th Investigation Bureau of the Seoul Regional Tax Office, issues such as the service structure related to the one-person agency established by his mother emerged, leading to a notice of a large tax penalty.

At the time, the scale of the penalty was reported to be over 20 billion won, which was evaluated as an unusual level within the domestic entertainment industry. Cha Eun Woo's side proceeded with legal procedures by requesting a pre-taxation review of the National Tax Service's decision, but as the controversy grew, they stated, "We respect the decision of the tax authorities and will faithfully engage in the relevant procedures."

Subsequently, Cha Eun Woo decided to pay the penalty, and it is reported that he fully paid the amount this past April. However, as a portion of the existing payment history was recognized as double taxation, a refund process was initiated, and it is known that the final amount actually borne was settled at approximately 13 billion won.

From the large-scale tax issues to his military enlistment and his recent move toward a life of faith, Cha Eun Woo is undergoing various changes not only as a star before the public but also as an individual. Interest continues to grow regarding what kind of person he will return to the public as after his discharge, having added a new direction to his life through baptism.