Fantagio, an entertainment agency, has issued an apology following an incident involving an automated response system (ARS) event that promoted singer Cha Eun-woo’s new album. The event, intended to engage fans and generate excitement for the release ofELSE (Else), faced unexpected challenges when a large number of calls overwhelmed the system.
The ARS event was designed to allow fans to call a specific number and hear a pre-recorded message from Cha Eun-woo. The message included questions like, “How have you been? What do you think of my album? Have you been thinking of me a lot? I miss you.” This interactive approach aimed to create a personal connection between the artist and his fans.
However, on the day of the event, which started at 3:30 p.m., over 100,000 calls were received, leading to significant connection delays. Some fans, due to confusion or miscommunication, dialed incorrect numbers instead of the one provided by the agency. This resulted in unintended consequences, with some individuals receiving calls meant for others.
In response, Fantagio clarified that the official number for the ARS event is ’070-8919-0330.’ The agency emphasized that only calls to this specific number would be connected successfully. It also expressed concern about users entering incorrect numbers, which could lead to contacting unrelated parties. As a result, the agency requested that all participants ensure they dial the exact number to avoid any issues.
The agency further extended its sincere apologies to those affected by the situation. It acknowledged the inconvenience caused and pledged to take necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Cha Eun-woo, who enlisted in the army in July as part of the Army Band, is currently serving as an active-duty soldier. His commitment to military service has not diminished his popularity among fans, who continue to support his artistic endeavors.
On the 31st of last month, Cha Eun-woo gained attention for hosting the welcome dinner event for the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit Meeting, which took place at the Lahan Select Hotel in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province. His participation in such a high-profile event highlighted his growing influence beyond the entertainment industry.
Cha Eun-woo’s new album,ELSE, was recorded before his enlistment and is set to be released through various music platforms at 1 p.m. on the 21st. Fans are eagerly anticipating the release, which marks a significant milestone in his solo career.
Additionally, Cha Eun-woo has appeared in the movieFirst Ride, which recently premiered. His involvement in the film further demonstrates his versatility as an artist and his dedication to exploring different creative avenues.
Overall, despite the challenges faced during the ARS event, Cha Eun-woo continues to maintain a strong presence in both the music and entertainment industries. His efforts to connect with fans and his commitment to his responsibilities as a soldier reflect his professionalism and dedication.