Shaolin Temple names new abbot after predecessor removed amid misconduct probe

Shi Yinle has been appointed the new abbot of the world-renowned Shaolin Temple in central China's Henan province, two days after former abbot Shi Yongxin was placed under investigation for alleged embezzlement and misconduct, the temple said on Tuesday.

Shi Yinle, 59, is currently the abbot of the White Horse Temple, also in Henan, and serves as deputy head of the Henan Provincial Buddhist Association.

"In accordance with the regulations on the appointment of abbots of Chinese Buddhist temples, after democratic evaluation and approval by the Shaolin Temple and following the relevant procedures, Venerable Yinle was invited to be the abbot of Shaolin Temple," the temple said in a statement.

The Buddhist Association of China announced Monday that Shi Yongxin's ordination certificate — a document confirming one's acceptance into the monastic community — had been revoked.

"Shi's actions are extremely bad, seriously damaging the reputation of the Buddhist community and the image of monks," the association said.

On Sunday evening, the Shaolin Temple said in a statement on its official website that Shi Yongxin, who also served as deputy head of the national Buddhist association, is suspected of criminal offenses, including embezzlement, misappropriation of temple funds and assets, and long-term inappropriate relationships with multiple women. Authorities said he fathered at least one child out of wedlock.

Shi Yongxin, 59, became a monk in 1981 and was appointed the 30th abbot of the 1,500-year-old Shaolin Temple in 1999. He is known as the first Chinese abbot to hold a master's degree in business administration.

A globally recognized Buddhist sanctuary and the birthplace of kung fu, the Shaolin Temple draws thousands of disciples annually, including many from overseas.