The abbot of China’s iconic Shaolin Temple, Shi Yongxin, is once again at the centre of controversy, this time facing a criminal investigation for suspected embezzlement of temple assets and improper conduct involving multiple women.
In a public announcement issued on 27 July by the renowned Buddhist monastery in Henan province, Yongxin is accused of misappropriating funds related to temple projects. More startling are the allegations that the 59-year-old religious leader had illicit relationships with several women and allegedly fathered children out of wedlock—acts that contradict the vows expected of Buddhist monks.
A Controversial Figure Dubbed the ‘CEO Monk’
Shi Yongxin has long courted both reverence and criticism. Appointed abbot in 1999, he made headlines for transforming the ancient temple, often considered the spiritual birthplace of kung fu, into a commercial powerhouse. Holding an MBA and known for his corporate-like management style, he earned the nickname “CEO Monk”.
Over the years, he has faced public backlash for accepting luxury gifts, including expensive cars, and pursuing commercial ventures abroad. In 2015, he drew widespread criticism for spearheading plans to build a Shaolin-themed resort in Australia that was to feature a hotel and golf course. That same year, similar accusations of womanising and financial mismanagement surfaced, but they did not result in formal charges.
Temple Confirms Ongoing Joint Investigation
Despite commanding a significant following of over 870,000 on Chinese social media platform Weibo, Yongxin has remained silent since 24 July, fuelling speculation and online chatter. According to a statement issued by Shaolin Temple officials, multiple Chinese government departments are currently involved in the investigation.
While further details have not yet been disclosed, the temple assured the public that updates will be provided in due course.
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
The allegations have ignited fierce debate across Chinese social media, with many questioning the integrity of high-profile religious leaders and the potential misuse of public donations to religious institutions. The issue has also shone a spotlight on the broader commercialisation of religious spaces in China.
Yongxin’s case isn’t isolated. Just recently, a Thai abbot was arrested for allegedly embezzling more than S$11.7 million to fund online gambling activities, raising fresh concerns about transparency and accountability in religious organisations across Asia.
If the current allegations against Shi Yongxin are proven true, it could mark a dramatic fall from grace for one of China’s most prominent monastic figures, and potentially prompt regulatory scrutiny into how temples manage donations and operate commercially.
As the investigation continues, many are watching closely to see whether Yongxin will face criminal charges or once again manage to avoid legal repercussions, as he did a decade ago.