AsianFin -- China has appointed a new abbot to the iconic Shaolin Temple, just two days after authorities announced that the monastery’s longtime head monk—who led the temple for over 25 years—was under investigation for alleged financial misconduct and sexual improprieties.

The swift leadership transition underscores the government’s efforts to maintain control over prominent religious institutions amid mounting scrutiny of high-profile clerics. The Shaolin Temple, known globally as the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Chinese kung fu, has long been both a spiritual and cultural symbol.