Former Abbot of China's Shaolin Monastery Sentenced to 24 Years

Shi Yongxin, the former chief monk of the famous Shaolin Monastery in China, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for embezzlement and bribery. The monastery is widely known as the birthplace of kung fu.

The former abbot of China's Shaolin Monastery — one of the world's most renowned Buddhist temples — has been sentenced to 24 years in prison. The court found Shi Yongxin guilty of embezzlement and accepting bribes.

The Shaolin Monastery, located in Henan Province, gained worldwide renown thanks to its martial arts tradition of kung fu. Shi Yongxin led this religious complex for many years and transformed it into a major tourist and commercial brand.

Accusations of financial misconduct against the former abbot emerged several years ago. Critics pointed to excessive commercialization of the monastery and opaque management of its revenues. Now the court has delivered its final verdict — 24 years in prison.