South Korean ‘Monk DJ’ enrages Malaysian Buddhist community for leading nightclub revellers in ‘prayer’ dance
- Comedian Yoon Seong-ho undergoes Buddhist initiation ritual, becomes DJ
- Wears monk’s robes, includes Buddhist elements in sets, has global reach
A South Korean entertainer, known as Monk DJ, has sparked controversy in Malaysia for his prayer-like dance moves, which are considered disrespectful to the Buddhist faith.
Yoon Seong-ho, 47, is not a monk, but a comedian who underwent a Buddhist initiation ritual at Jogye Temple in South Korea in November last year.
He was given the Dharma name “New Jin” by his master, which means “striving forward into the new”, according to the China Press.
He calls himself “DJ NewJeansNim” and incorporates Buddhist elements into his electronic music, such as striking a wooden fish.
Yoon says he aims to use his identity as a DJ to promote a better understanding of Buddhism and to challenge prejudices against it.
In May last year he gained fame with his song Buddha Handsome and attracted 88,400 followers on YouTube.