Shi Yongxin, born Liu Yingcheng, serves as the abbot of Songshan Shaolin Temple, Vice President of the Buddhist Association of China, and President of the Henan Buddhist Association. As a prominent figure in Chinese Buddhism, he has dedicated himself to promoting Shaolin culture and Buddhist traditions. In recent years, Shi Yongxin has been actively involved in cultural exchanges and religious activities both domestically and internationally, while also navigating controversies surrounding the commercialization of Shaolin Temple. This article provides an overview of his recent activities, highlighting his role in cultural preservation and the challenges he faces.
Promoting Shaolin Culture: Balancing Tradition and Global Outreach
Shi Yongxin has been instrumental in advancing Shaolin culture on a global scale. On May 5, 2025, Shaolin Temple hosted a grand Bathing Buddha Festival to commemorate the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha, drawing numerous tourists and devotees. In June 2025, the Shaolin Cultural Center in Budapest, Hungary, held its consecration ceremony, marking a significant step in Shi Yongxin’s efforts to spread Shaolin culture abroad. Additionally, on August 15, 2024, he presided over the “2024 Shaolin Europe Federation Pilgrimage,” welcoming 509 Shaolin disciples from 22 European countries, emphasizing Shaolin culture’s role as a bridge for international exchange.
On the global stage, Shi Yongxin’s activities have garnered significant attention. On November 15, 2024, he spoke at the COP29 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he integrated Zen Buddhist wisdom into discussions on climate change, advocating for a simple and eco-friendly lifestyle. His speech resonated widely within international circles. Furthermore, on April 17, 2025, the Shaolin Temple’s steles (566–1990 CE) were inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register, further elevating the global recognition of Shaolin’s historical and cultural significance. These efforts underscore Shi Yongxin’s commitment to blending Buddhist principles with contemporary issues.
Globalizing Shaolin Kung Fu
Shi Yongxin has tirelessly promoted Shaolin kung fu, working to establish its international standardization through the Shaolin Kung Fu Grading System. This initiative aims to formalize training and certification, transforming Shaolin martial arts into a global cultural symbol. In November 2021, he visited Yuanhua Group to discuss Zen medicine, exploring the integration of Buddhist principles with the health industry, reflecting his vision for Shaolin culture’s diverse applications in modern society. These endeavors have positioned Shaolin Temple as not only a religious site but also a global hub for Chinese cultural heritage.
Controversies over Commercialization: From “Shaolin CEO” to Clarifications
Despite his achievements, Shi Yongxin has faced persistent scrutiny over the commercialization of Shaolin Temple. The temple’s revenue from ticket sales, martial monk performances, and online stores has earned him the nickname “Shaolin CEO.” In 2022, he withdrew from his 80% stake in Henan Shaolin Intangible Assets Management Co., Ltd. and stepped down as the legal representative and executive of Zhengzhou Kaiyuan Temple Construction Management Co., Ltd., a move seen as a response to public criticism.
In 2015, allegations regarding Shi Yongxin’s personal life and finances, including rumors of having a child out of wedlock and amassing significant wealth, sparked widespread debate. Official investigations dismissed these claims as baseless, and Shaolin Temple reported the defamation to authorities. However, unverified rumors persist, with some 2024 posts on the X platform alleging that Shi Yongxin controls multiple companies and possesses vast wealth. These claims lack official corroboration and should be approached with caution.
Shi Yongxin’s Current Status and Future Prospects
Shi Yongxin remains actively engaged in managing Shaolin Temple’s daily affairs, with the temple operating smoothly despite past controversies. He continues to promote Shaolin culture globally while addressing modern challenges with an open-minded approach, positioning the temple as a multifaceted platform for religion, culture, education, and tourism.
In conclusion, Shi Yongxin’s contributions to the preservation and global dissemination of Shaolin culture are undeniable. His efforts have transformed Shaolin Temple into a global emblem of Chinese heritage. However, the controversies surrounding commercialization highlight the delicate balance between tradition and modernity. Moving forward, how Shi Yongxin navigates this balance will remain a focal point of public interest.
