The Shaolin Temple, one of China's most iconic spiritual landmarks, is once again at the center of controversy.
On July 27, the temple confirmed that its abbot Shi Yongxin is under investigation for serious criminal offenses and violations of Buddhist precepts—including embezzlement of temple funds and engaging in illicit relationships with multiple women.
Shaolin Temple official statement. Image via Shaolin Temple/WeChat
Once nicknamed the 'CEO Monk' for transforming the ancient temple into a global brand empire, Shi now stands accused of turning a spiritual institution into his personal business.
According to an official statement released on the temple's WeChat account, Shi is alleged to have misappropriated project funds and temple property, and to have fathered illegitimate children in long-term extramarital affairs—behavior deemed a grave breach of Buddhist discipline.
While rumors had been swirling online for days, including a viral but later debunked police notice claiming Shi attempted to flee, the temple’s late-night announcement confirmed the worst: that multiple government departments are now conducting a joint investigation.
Buddhist Association of China official statement. Screenshot by That's
In a follow-up statement the next day, the Buddhist Association of China expressed full support for legal action and officially revoked Shi’s monastic credentials—his jie die (戒牒)—the certificate issued to monks and nuns upon completion of formal Buddhist ordination.
The revocation of a jie die is no small matter. This official document serves as both proof of a monk’s status, as well as the key to their participation in religious practices and community life.
It also carries deep symbolic weight as part of Buddhism’s spiritual lineage. Removing it is essentially stripping a monk of all religious legitimacy.
Shi gives guidance during Kung Fu showcase. Image via 释永信师傅/Sina Weibo
This is not the first time Shi has faced public scrutiny. In 2015, whistleblowers from within the Shaolin community accused him of similar misconduct, including having mistresses, fathering illegitimate children, amassing luxury vehicles, and transferring temple assets to private names.
At the time, the temple denied the claims, and no official charges were filed. But this time, the response was swift, and the consequences are visibly unfolding.
As of now, Shi Yongxin—known in secular life as Liu Yingcheng—has not made any public statements.
The once-celebrated figure who oversaw the Shaolin Temple’s expansion into martial arts schools, wellness products, film production, and global tourism, now finds himself at the center of what may be modern Chinese Buddhism’s most consequential reckoning.
Stay tuned to ThatsGBA for further developments on this ongoing investigation.
[Cover image via 释永信师傅/Sina Weibo]
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