DJ performance by the Korean comedian Youn Sung-ho has run into opposition from Buddhist groups in Singapore. (Photo: a screenshot from social media)
BANGKOK, May 23 (Korea Bizwire) – Following controversy in Malaysia, a planned DJ performance by the Korean comedian Youn Sung-ho, known as the New Jeans Nim, has run into opposition from Buddhist groups in Singapore, prompting authorities to step in.
On May 22, Kasiviswanathan Shanmugam, Singapore’s home affairs minister, stated on social media that the police had informed him they would take action if the show proceeded, and that the club owner had agreed to cooperate, according to reports by The Straits Times and AFP.
Shanmugam said the performance, which featured Youn wearing monk’s robes and using Buddhist scripture in his lyrics, was “offensive to Buddhists in Singapore and is unacceptable.”
Youn, a popular comedian who performs electronic dance music (EDM) while dressed as a monk with a shaved head, robes, and prayer beads, had been scheduled to appear at a club in Singapore on June 19 and 20.
Upon learning of the planned event, the Singapore Buddhist Federation called for it to be canceled, arguing that as Youn is not an ordained monk, he should not be allowed to perform wearing monastic robes.
On May 21, the police warned the club that public entertainment licenses require events to avoid offending any race, religion or ethnic group, suggesting Youn’s act could violate these conditions.
Faced with the authorities’ firm stance, the club stated it would comply with the licensing requirements and ensure no religious elements were included in the performance.
While embraced by Buddhist communities in South Korea, Youn’s act has sparked backlash as he has expanded his reach overseas. After a performance in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on May 3 drew criticism from Buddhist groups and politicians there, additional scheduled shows were canceled following calls for a ban.
Both Malaysia and Singapore are multi-ethnic, multi-religious nations, with Buddhist communities comprising significant portions of their populations – the largest religious group among the ethnic Chinese majority in Singapore.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
