Published：May 28, 16:00Last updated：May 30, 04:25

Former Shaolin Abbot Sentenced for Corruption

May. 28, 2026 16:00

Liu Yingcheng, the former abbot of Shaolin Temple, received a 24-year sentence and a 3.5-million-yuan fine for embezzlement, bribery, and other crimes. From 2003 to 2025, he misappropriated over 131 million yuan from temple funds and accepted 11.63 million yuan in bribes for construction projects. He also bribed officials with 5.67 million yuan. The court cited the crimes' severity and duration but noted his cooperation. Liu, who didn't appeal, was central to Shaolin's commercial expansion. The case exposed systemic corruption under his leadership, tarnishing the temple's reputation.

Summarized

14News

10Media

May. 29, 2026 22:41

The Chinese Buddhist Association stated on May 29 that the 24-year prison sentence for former Shaolin Temple abbot Shi Yongxin (Liu Yingcheng) was justified. Convicted of embezzlement, bribery, and other crimes, his case serves as a warning to religious figures to adhere to laws and maintain ethical standards. The association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting discipline and integrity within the Buddhist community.

May. 30, 2026 04:25

Shi Yongxin, the former abbot of Shaolin Temple, was sentenced to 24 years in prison and fined ¥35 million for embezzlement and bribery. The court found that he misappropriated approximately ¥1.3 billion over 20 years. Shi has indicated he will not appeal the verdict.

The former abbot of China's renowned Shaolin Temple, Shi Yongxin (also known as Liu Yingcheng), has been sentenced to 24 years in prison and fined 3.5 million yuan for multiple corruption charges including embezzlement, bribery, and misappropriation of funds. The Xinyang Intermediate People's Court delivered the verdict on May 29, 2026, marking one of the most high-profile corruption cases involving a religious leader in China. China.org+2

🏛️ Court Findings

The court revealed that between 2003 and 2025, Shi embezzled 131 million yuan from temple funds and misused an additional 151 million yuan from the Shaolin Temple Charity Foundation. He also accepted 11.63 million yuan in bribes related to construction projects and paid 5.67 million yuan in bribes to officials. Despite his cooperation with investigators, the severity and duration of his crimes warranted the lengthy sentence. China.org+2

🕊️ Buddhist Association's Response

The Chinese Buddhist Association issued a statement supporting the verdict, emphasizing the principle of equality before the law. The association described the case as a warning to religious practitioners and pledged to strengthen legal education and ethical standards among members. Shi's case has particularly tarnished the reputation of Shaolin Temple, which he helped commercialize globally. Huanqiu+2

💰 Scale of Corruption

Financial documents presented in court showed Shi's illicit activities totaled over 282 million yuan (approximately $40 million). Key findings include:

Embezzlement from temple donations: 131 million yuan
Misuse of charity funds: 151 million yuan
Bribery transactions: 17.3 million yuan (received and given) BBC News+2

🏯 Impact on Shaolin Temple

Once celebrated for transforming Shaolin into a global brand, Shi's downfall has raised questions about financial oversight in religious institutions. The temple, famous for its kung fu heritage, attracts millions of visitors annually. The case has prompted calls for stricter financial regulations in China's religious organizations. Shi, who didn't appeal, expressed remorse during the trial. Reuters+2

Shi YongxinLiu YingchengShaolin TempleChinese Buddhist AssociationXinyang Intermediate People's Court