Shaolin Temple Head Under Official Embezzlement Investigation in China

Shi Yongxin, the head abbot of China's Shaolin Temple, renowned as the birthplace of kung fu and Zen Buddhism, is under investigation for embezzlement and serious violations of Buddhist precepts, including alleged improper relationships with multiple women. The Shaolin Temple announced that multiple departments are jointly probing accusations that Shi diverted funds and temple assets, while previous allegations against him included maintaining a fleet of luxury cars and fathering children with several women. Shi, known as the "CEO monk" for his extensive commercial ventures and global promotion of Shaolin culture, has faced similar accusations before, which were dismissed by the temple as malicious slander in 2015. His efforts to expand Shaolin studies internationally and establish numerous companies abroad drew both acclaim and criticism for commercializing Buddhism. The scandal has attracted massive public attention in China, with related social media hashtags garnering over 560 million views. Shi Yongxin also holds prominent positions such as vice-chairman of the Buddhist Association of China and a representative in the National People's Congress, underscoring the significance of the investigation within China's religious and political spheres.