Recognized for Dedication to the Buddhist Community
Singer and actor Lee Seunggi made a public appearance at the official Buddha's Birthday event after receiving the "Buddhist of the Year" award. This marks his first official appearance since he declared a complete break with his in-laws following recent controversy involving his father-in-law.
On May 5, at the Buddha's Birthday celebration ceremony for the Buddhist Era 2569 (2025) held at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Lee Seunggi was selected as the recipient of the "2025 Buddhist of the Year" award and received a plaque of appreciation from Jinwoo, the Chief Executive of the Jogye Order. Dressed in a black suit, Lee Seunggi posed for commemorative photos with a bouquet and trophy in his arms, receiving congratulations from many attendees.
Singer Lee Seunggi (right) received a plaque of appreciation from Jinwoo, the Chief Executive of the Jogye Order, at the Buddhist Award ceremony held at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 5th. Photo by Yonhap News
The Buddhist of the Year award is given to individuals who have elevated the status of Korean Buddhism and have practiced Buddhist teachings in their daily lives.
Lee Seunggi was originally a Christian, but it is known that he converted to Buddhism after meeting his wife, Lee Dain. His wife Lee Dain, mother-in-law Kyeon Miri, and sister-in-law Lee Yubi are all Buddhists.
The Jogye Order's Buddhist of the Year Selection Committee stated that Lee Seunggi "played a significant role in promoting the values and sentiments of Buddhism through his portrayal of a shaven-headed monk in the film 'Large Family.'" The committee also recognized his contributions, noting that "he donated 100 million won to the Jogye Order's temple construction project 'Building for a Millennium,' and participated in supporting Buddhist missionary work."
Previously, Lee Seunggi has participated in various Buddhist events, including activities with the cultural and arts foundation Kumuda, serving as host for the National Music Concert at the International Seon Meditation Conference, and performing at the Kumuda 11th anniversary celebration concert.
Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jaemyung is greeting at the Buddha's Birthday celebration ceremony held at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the 5th, marking the 2569th year of the Buddhist calendar. Photo by Yonhap News
The event was also attended by Lee Jaemyung of the Democratic Party, Kim Moonsu of the People Power Party, and independent presidential candidate Han Ducksoo. Candidate Lee Jaemyung met Lee Seunggi, shook hands, and offered his congratulations.
In addition to Lee Seunggi, other recipients of the Buddhist of the Year award included archer Lim Siyun, who won three gold medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Jeong Byungguk, Deputy Director of the Chamjoeun Policy Institute, and Kim Yunbong, manager at a law office.
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