Arden Cho has come under criticism from Korean netizens after publicly expressing support for Cha Eunwoo amid his ongoing tax controversy, with many arguing that the timing of her message was inappropriate.

On January 26, Cha Eunwoo released a detailed statement on social media addressing allegations linked to a major tax reassessment. In his post, he issued an apology and acknowledged his responsibilities, writing, “I am reflecting on my duties as a taxpayer,” and adding, “I will sincerely cooperate with the ongoing tax procedures.”

Shortly after the statement was published, Arden Cho commented publicly in support of the singer and actor. “Always supporting you, dongsaeng, hwaiting!” she wrote. While the message was welcomed by some international fans, the response within South Korea was markedly more critical.

Photo: Instagram

Many Korean netizens voiced disappointment, suggesting that public encouragement was ill-judged given the seriousness of the situation. “This is not the moment to be cheering him on,” one user wrote, while others accused Cho of being “tone-deaf to Korean social sentiment” and urged her to “read the room.”

The backlash is closely tied to the scale of the case facing Cha Eunwoo. He is reported to have received a tax reassessment notice exceeding $13 million (₩20 billion) from the Seoul Regional Tax Office, one of the largest amounts ever associated with an entertainer. The investigation reportedly began prior to his military enlistment but concluded afterwards, leading to speculation online about the timing of his service.

Public scepticism has been further fuelled by reports that Cha Eunwoo retained Shin & Kim, one of South Korea’s most prominent law firms, to represent him. This prompted accusations that he may be seeking preferential treatment through former senior tax officials now affiliated with the firm.

Against this backdrop, Arden Cho’s comment has been widely viewed as lacking sensitivity. Critics noted that despite any personal connection formed through work such as the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack, greater discretion was expected during a period of heightened public scrutiny.