A South Korean deejay, Youn Sung Ho, is gaining popularity as he performs at an annual lantern-lighting festival dressed as a Buddhist monk. Youn created a persona called NewJeansNim, which combines the title for Buddhist monks in Korea, Sunim, with a Dharma name he received from a senior monk. This unique DJ-monk character has attracted many young South Korean adults to Buddhism, including university student Kwon Dohyun, who appreciates the inclusivity and openness of the faith. Youn’s performances and music have resonated with the younger generation, breaking away from traditional perceptions of Buddhism as quiet and solemn.
Youn’s popularity among young adults was evident at the lantern-lighting festival, where he received cheers while performing electronic music and engaging the crowd with his DJ-monk persona. He believes that his unconventional approach to Buddhism, combining music and humor, has struck a chord with young South Koreans who are looking for something new and exciting within the traditional religion. Another Buddhist influencer, Venerable Beomjeong, known as Kkotsnim, is also active on social media platforms like Instagram to communicate Buddhist teachings and thoughts, reaching Buddhists and non-believers alike.
Both Youn and Beomjeong have faced criticism for their efforts to attract young followers to Buddhism through social media. Critics have accused them of tarnishing the image of Buddhism by deviating from traditional norms and portraying monks in a different light. However, Youn believes that the younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are more receptive to change and open to new ways of engaging with religion. Beomjeong, on the other hand, sees the role of an influencer as an opportunity to share messages about Buddhism and dispel misconceptions.
These Buddhist influencers aim to challenge conventional perceptions about monks and Buddhism in Korean society. By using social media platforms to engage with a younger audience, they hope to promote understanding and interest in the teachings of Buddhism. While they have faced criticisms from some quarters, both Youn and Beomjeong remain committed to their mission of spreading the Dharma and creating a more inclusive and modern image of Buddhism. Their efforts have not only attracted new followers but have also sparked conversations about the relevance of religion in contemporary society.
