Controversy over 'Pulsoyu' - Monk Hyemin Returns to Broadcasting After Over 3 Years of Self-Restraint Declaration

After revealing his life in a luxury house in Seoul and facing controversy over 'full ownership,' Ven. Hyemin, who had suspended his activities, is returning to broadcasting. This comes 3 years and 3 months after he announced his hiatus in November 2020.

[Photo by BTN Bulgyo TV]

BTN Buddhist TV announced that Ven. Hyemin will appear on the program "Cafe Hyemin, Where the Mind Rests," which will air every Monday starting from the 4th of next month. BTN Buddhist TV described the program as "a time to step away from a busy daily life, pause for a moment, and reflect on the deeper meaning of life and true happiness. Together with Ven. Hyemin, we look back on our minds and find peace and relaxation that are easily forgotten in everyday life."

Ven. Hyemin, who gained widespread popularity with the bestseller When You Stop, You Finally See, appeared on an entertainment program in November 2020 and revealed his residence, a mansion located in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, which sparked controversy over 'full ownership.' The public criticized him for living in a house with a view of Namsan and using expensive electronic devices, which contrasted with the concept of 'non-possession.' In addition, suspicions arose regarding his purchase of an apartment in New York after becoming an officially ordained monk of the Jogye Order, as well as controversies related to startup profit activities and other property matters.

As the controversy grew, Ven. Hyemin posted on his social media, "I sincerely repent to everyone who was hurt and disappointed by this matter," and announced, "I will put down all activities and return to the public meditation center to study the Buddha’s teachings again and devote myself to practice and prayer," thereby suspending his broadcasting activities.

Afterwards, in May 2022, Ven. Hyemin contributed an article titled "Stay Strong, Ukraine!" to Beopbo Newspaper, sharing updates that he was helping refugees with relief organizations in Germany and Poland at the time. In September of the same year, he was spotted volunteering at a meal service at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul. Furthermore, starting from December, he began serializing articles in Beopbo Newspaper, a Buddhist newspaper, showing signs of officially resuming his activities.