Review article based on AFP reporting, published by CNA (16 Nov 2025) © Mediacorp.
China has arrested Shi Yongxin, the high-profile former abbot of the Shaolin Temple—the historic birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Chinese gongfu—on allegations of embezzlement, misappropriating funds, and accepting bribes.
Fall of the “CEO Monk”
Shi, 60, served as abbot since 1999, expanding the Shaolin brand globally and establishing numerous international commercial ventures. His aggressive commercialisation earned him the nickname “CEO monk.”
However, over the years he attracted repeated controversy, including claims from former monks accusing him of:
- Embezzling money from temple-run companies
- Maintaining luxury cars
- Fathering children with multiple women
Removal, Investigation, and Arrest
In July 2025, Shi was removed as abbot, disrobed, and stripped of his ordination certificate after investigations uncovered “extremely bad behaviour.”
The Buddhist Association of China condemned him for seriously damaging the reputation of Buddhism and undermining the image of monks.
On 16 November 2025, the Xinxiang Procuratorate in Henan province approved his formal arrest on criminal suspicion of:
- Embezzling temple and project funds
- Misappropriating assets
- Accepting bribes as a non-state employee
Shaolin Temple’s Cultural Significance
Founded in AD 495, the Shaolin Temple is one of China’s most iconic religious and cultural institutions. It has long been venerated for its:
- Origins in Chan (Zen) Buddhism
- Historic association with Chinese martial arts (gongfu)
- Global influence on monastic martial traditions
Shi’s downfall marks one of the most significant scandals in modern Chinese Buddhism, prompting authorities and religious leaders to call for stronger ethical governance and financial transparency within religious institutions.
Source: AFP via CNA, “Ex-abbot of China’s Shaolin Temple arrested for embezzlement”, 16 November 2025.
© Mediacorp 2025.
