DJ Monk New Jin: Yoon Seong-ho Responds To Criticism from Malaysian Buddhist Community

It was reported by Hong Kong’s media outlet South China Morning Post (SCMP) that Yoon Seong-ho’s performance in a monk robe at a club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on May 3rd sparked complaints and criticism from both the local Buddhist community and political circles.

According to Malaysian lawmaker Wee Ka Siong, DJ Monk New Jin caused outrage within the Buddhist community in Malaysia by pretending to be a Buddhist monk and performing at a club, leading to a false representation of Buddhist principles and beliefs.

The President of the Malaysian Chinese Association also mentioned that the controversial actions of the individual have caused pain to the Buddhist community, who will be observing Vesak Day (a festival that honors the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha) in two weeks.

Despite the negative comments, Yoon Seong-ho appeared to acknowledge them by posting a video on May 11th with the caption, “On-site reactions of Monk New Jin’s performance in Malaysia”. The video showcases numerous enthusiastic audience reactions to his performance.

Meanwhile, the Korean Buddhist community is eagerly anticipating the appearance of ‘Monk New Jin’ Yoon Seong-ho. As part of the celebrations for Buddha’s Birthday on May 12th, he will be performing as a DJ at an EDM concert on a specially set up stage near Jogyesa Temple.

During the press conference prior to Buddha’s Birthday, Monk Jinwoo, who is also the general secretary of Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, remarked, “Numerous young individuals regard monks with a deep, respectful, and earnest gaze” . Praising Monk New Jin, he added, “His task is to be a trailblazer in reaching out to the youth and comforting their souls” . Monk Jinwoo then presented DJ Monk New Jina with a headset and a bead as tokens of appreciation.

In 2001, Yoon Seong-ho debuted as a comedian after being selected through KBS’s 16th open recruitment. At the time, he portrayed a character with a bald head. In May of last year, he made headlines when he appeared as a DJ at an EDM party during the Lantern Festival. Since then, he has been performing under the name Monk New Jin.

The original source is provided by Daum.