Former Shaolin Temple Abbot Sentenced to 24 Years in Prison

Shi Yongxin, the former abbot of the renowned Shaolin Temple, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison by the Intermediate People's Court of Xiangxiang City in Henan Province, China. The verdict, announced on May 29, included a fine of 3.5 million yuan.

Authorities accused Shi Yongxin, whose real name is Liu Yingcheng, of exploiting his positions as abbot and chairman of the Shaolin Charity Foundation for personal gain. Between 2003 and 2025, he allegedly embezzled over 131 million yuan, either alone or in collusion with others. Furthermore, from 2012 to 2022, he is accused of misusing over 151 million yuan of the temple's funds for personal purposes, failing to repay the amounts for over three months.

During his 26-year tenure, Shi Yongxin cultivated a vast commercial empire spanning culture, cuisine, medicine, and fashion, earning him the nicknames "political monk" and "Shaolin CEO." He also allegedly facilitated construction projects and business activities related to the Shaolin Temple from July 2006, receiving bribes totaling over 11.63 million yuan. Additionally, between 1995 and 2022, he is reported to have given over 5.67 million yuan to state employees to secure improper benefits.

The court found Shi Yongxin guilty of embezzlement, misuse of funds, and bribery, noting the "exceptionally serious" nature of the crimes, their prolonged duration, severe social consequences, and negative impact. Despite his alleged transgressions, Shi Yongxin reportedly confessed fully, provided additional information about his crimes, pleaded guilty, and expressed remorse. He accepted the court's verdict and stated he would not appeal.