Shi Yongxin, abbot of China’s iconic Shaolin Temple, is under criminal investigation for alleged embezzlement, misappropriation of temple assets, and serious violations of Buddhist precepts, the temple said in a July 27 announcement.

Shi, who has led the 1,500-year-old monastery in central China’s Henan province since 1999, is also accused of maintaining long-term relationships with multiple women and fathering at least one child out of wedlock. Authorities from multiple government departments are jointly investigating the allegations.

On July 28, the Buddhist Association of China said it had revoked Shi’s ordination certificate, citing the damage his alleged misconduct had caused to the image of the Buddhist community.

Nicknamed the “CEO Monk,” Shi, born Liu Yingcheng, transformed the Shaolin Temple from a local holy site into a global commercial powerhouse. Since becoming abbot in 1999, he promoted Shaolin through international kung fu performances, overseas schools, and cultural exports, drawing both acclaim and criticism.

Under Shi’s leadership, the temple’s business ventures have expanded into sectors including culture, catering, medicine, and clothing. Corporate records from domestic data platform Qichacha show that the Songshan Shaolin Temple has registered 831 trademarks across categories such as jewelry, apparel, packaged foods, lighting, hospitality, and education.

In 2008, Shi established Henan Shaolin Intangible Assets Management Co., Ltd. to oversee the temple’s commercial interests. Over the next decade, the company invested in 16 businesses, with total investments reaching 80 million yuan ($11 million), spanning tea, incense halls, cultural tourism, and performing arts.

Following the investigation, the temple’s official ticketing website was taken offline. Officials said the Songshan scenic area, which manages the site, remains open to visitors. Tickets — except for discounted categories — are no longer sold on site at the temple and must now be booked through the scenic area’s website.

Ticket sales are a major source of revenue for the temple. In 2020, the Shaolin Temple drew more than 3.5 million tourists, and at an average price of 100 yuan per ticket, annual ticket revenue is estimated at 350 million yuan, of which the temple takes about 30%. The temple has previously stated that 70% of its share goes toward construction, 20% to monks’ living expenses, and 10% to charity.

No formal charges have been announced. Shi has not issued a personal statement, and the temple says more information will be released as the investigation progresses.

Editor: Apurva.

(Header image: Shi Yongxin at the Shaolin Temple in Songshan, Henan province, July 29, 2017. Quan Yi for Sixth Tone)