Controversy Over 'Pulsoyu' Monk Hyemin Mentions 'Repentance' in Broadcast After 3 Years

Appearing on Buddhist TV Program on the 4th: "Repentance for Not Meeting Expectations"

Hye-min Seunim, who was embroiled in controversy over ‘full ownership’ including the public disclosure of a mansion with a view of Namsan in Seoul, has returned to broadcasting after about 3 years and 3 months. On the 4th, Hye-min Seunim appeared on BTN Buddhist TV’s “The Cafe Where the Mind Rests, This is Hye-min” and offered comforting words while sharing various stories.

Hye-min Monk, who returned to broadcasting after 3 years and 3 months amid the 'Full Ownership' controversy.
[Photo by BTN Capture]

This marks his first broadcast return in 3 years and 4 months since November 2020. Hye-min Seunim gained widespread popularity with the bestseller When You Stop, You Finally See, but after a broadcast revealed his two-story house in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, and an office with many employees, he faced criticism such as “The Namsan View You See When You Stop” and “You Finally See Things When You Have Them.” He subsequently announced a suspension of activities in November 2020.

On the program “The Cafe Where the Mind Rests, This is Hye-min,” Hye-min Seunim bowed his head and said, “I repent for not meeting expectations as a monk.” He continued, “I am taking the words many people have given me seriously. I will take your advice as teachings and put more effort into propagation, spreading the Dharma, giving, and service, which are the duties of a monk.”

He added, “Together with a humble attitude, I will study and practice with you and create a good program where we can share our concerns. Though I am lacking, please watch over me. Thank you,” expressing his determination.

Broadcast screen at the time of the full ownership controversy.
[Photo by tvN 'On and Off']

That day, Hye-min Seunim introduced various listener stories and offered advice. He said, “Life continues on, so even if something bad happens, it doesn’t just end there, and conversely, even if something good happens, it doesn’t just end there either. That’s why life is unpredictable.”

Introducing the story of a Buddhist believer diagnosed with cancer, he said, “They felt that the ordinary daily routine of having breakfast, lunch, and dinner was very precious, and they felt grateful for the relationships with family and friends who spend time with them. If you turn your mind like this, things you thought were bad can become a turning point to live a second life, a good life.”

Introducing another believer’s story whose son entered a good large company, he said, “That Bodhisattva’s son quit after six months but couldn’t tell anyone around him.” He added, “They thought everything would work out well, but seeing results different from their expectations, they realized ‘It’s not always like that.’” He then urged, “How can you know if something is good or bad? I hope you remember this.”

Earlier, in May 2022, Hye-min Seunim shared his recent activities helping Ukrainian refugees through relief efforts in a contribution to Beopbo Newspaper. In September of the same year, he was also spotted volunteering to serve meals at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul.