Shaolin Temple’s ‘CEO monk’ accused of embezzlement, sexual misconduct

Authorities are investigating the abbot of China’s iconic Shaolin Temple for suspected embezzlement and improper relationships with women, reviving similar allegations from 2015.

The allegations: Shi Yongxin, 59, also known as “CEO monk,” is accused of embezzling project funds and temple assets while breaking Buddhist vows by having relationships with multiple women and fathering children. Police reportedly detained him last week as the probe began, while China’s Buddhist Association revoked his ordination certificate Monday. His Weibo page, which has nearly 900,000 followers, went silent after July 24. A now-debunked fake police notice also claimed that he had 174 illegitimate children, illegally transferred $41.3 billion and tried to flee to the U.S. with mistresses and some kids.

About the temple and Shi: The historic Shaolin Temple, founded more than 1,500 years ago in Henan province, holds UNESCO World Heritage status as the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and kung fu martial arts. Since becoming abbot in 1999, Shi earned his “CEO monk” reputation by building a commercial empire that operates across 40 countries. His business ventures included touring kung fu shows, licensing deals for movies and games, and running companies in publishing, traditional Chinese medicine and property development. Addressing criticism of his business approach, Shi once told state media, “If China can import Disney resorts, why can’t other countries import the Shaolin Monastery?”

Why this matters: The scandal raises questions about oversight within Buddhism in Asia. Thai authorities recently arrested a woman who extorted nine monks she allegedly had sex with for $11.9 million, leading to temple investigations nationwide.

Vendors near the Shaolin Temple now say fewer tourists are visiting, with one describing Shi as a monk whose personal conduct hurt Buddhism’s reputation. Now, the abbot’s quarters have been sealed off with barriers and inscriptions on a 1999 monument honoring his leadership have been covered. Authorities promise to release further information as the multi-agency investigation continues. Temple officials appointed Shi Yinle as the new abbot Tuesday.