SEOUL, Aug. 2 -- Cha Eun-woo has appealed against a 13 billion won (RM36.8 million) tax bill after paying the disputed amount in full, with the South Korean star potentially entitled to a refund if he succeeds.

The popular Astro member and K-drama actor is challenging the tax assessment while carrying out his compulsory military service, South Korean entertainment outlet OSEN reported.

His agency, Fantagio, confirmed today that Cha had formally lodged an appeal.

"Cha Eun-woo has filed a tax appeal in accordance with legally prescribed procedures to receive a judicial review," the agency said.

Cha underwent an intensive audit by the Seoul Regional Tax Office's Investigation Division 4 in July last year, shortly before enlisting in the ...