20-5-2024 (SINGAPORE) A clash of cultures is brewing in Singapore, as a local Buddhist organization finds itself at odds with a prominent nightclub over the planned performances of a South Korean DJ known for his unconventional monastic attire and fusion of Buddhist elements into his shows.
The Singapore Buddhist Federation (SBF), the umbrella body representing Buddhist institutions and practitioners in the city-state, has confirmed that discussions are underway with Club Rich Singapore regarding the upcoming appearances of DJ NewJeansNim, scheduled for June 19th and 20th.
In a statement to the press, SBF President Venerable Seck Kwang Phing acknowledged the ongoing dialogue with the nightclub, revealing that the club has expressed no intention to disrespect or contravene the federation’s concerns. Simultaneously, Venerable Seck expressed hope for a resolution that would prove beneficial for all parties involved.
The controversy stems from the SBF’s earlier call for authorities to prevent DJ NewJeansNim from performing, citing concerns over the artist’s attire and incorporation of Buddhist elements into his performances. In a Facebook post dated May 19th, the federation stated, “‘NewJeansNim’ is not a monk who should not put on monk’s robe to perform, which is against (the) Vinaya – ‘Monks’ Rule’.”
The post further implored relevant authorities to reject permits for the DJ’s performances, warning of potential embarrassment to Buddhists if such events were to proceed. As the nationwide representative of Buddhist monasteries, institutions, monks, nuns, and lay practitioners, the SBF aims to promote the religion’s practice and engage in community outreach.
Echoing similar sentiments, the federation’s secretary-general, Venerable Shi You Guang, took to Facebook to clarify that the DJ is not a Buddhist monk, asserting that “one should not mislead others in the name of creativity”. Guang emphasized the importance of respecting creativity and diverse perspectives while maintaining reverence for religious traditions, stressing that a monk’s robe should never be used as a costume or for cosplay purposes.
In an interview with The Straits Times, Venerable Kwang Phing expressed concern that the performance may portray an inaccurate image of Buddhism and contradict its teachings.
Buddhism holds a significant presence in Singapore, with 31.1 percent of residents aged 15 and above identifying as Buddhists according to the 2020 census. The DJ in question, Youn Sung-ho, gained notoriety as a former comedian who now infuses his electronic dance music performances with Buddhist teachings, donning a shaved head and monk’s robes.
While the 47-year-old artist has been embraced by South Korea’s Buddhist community for promoting “young Buddhism”, as reported by Reuters, his international performances have sparked backlash. In early May, DJ NewJeansNim performed at a nightclub in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, but a second scheduled gig was canceled after offending local Buddhists.
Malaysian lawmaker Wee Ka Siong condemned the DJ for performing “disguised” as a Buddhist monk, claiming it provided a distorted perception of Buddhist values and teachings. Wee called on the Malaysian authorities to ban the DJ from performing in entertainment venues within the country, echoing the sentiments of local Buddhist associations.
