Scandal in Shaolin: Former Abbott Shi Yongxin Charged

Shi Yongxin, former abbot of Shaolin Temple in Henan, China, has been charged with embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, and bribery. Known as the 'CEO monk' for his commercialization of the temple's fame, Shi's legal troubles follow a long tenure at the 1,500-year-old kung fu birthplace.

Shi Yongxin, the former abbot of China's Shaolin Temple, has been formally charged with embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, and bribery, according to a report from state news agency Xinhua.

The 60-year-old monk, often called the 'CEO monk' for his commercialization strategies, was placed under investigation last July.

Shi reportedly leveraged the temple's ancient reputation as the birthplace of kung fu to advance various commercial ventures during his tenure.

(With inputs from agencies.)