New Jeans Nim has become a sensation among young Koreans by blending the renowned Korean girl group, New Jeans, with the term ‘snim,’ meaning monk. Yun Sung-ho, the real name of New Jeans Nim, who is also a popular comedian, captivates audiences with his unique performances, donning monk attire, and delivering Buddhist remixes that resonate with contemporary culture. (a promotional poster image from SNS channel)
SEOUL/Kuala Lumpur, May 10 (Korea Bizwire) – A Malaysian member of parliament, Wee Ka Siong, has criticized a Korean DJ who performed at a nightclub in Kuala Lumpur while dressed as a Buddhist monk, according to a report by the South China Morning Post on May 9.
Wee accused the DJ, known as New Jeans Nim (whose real name is Yun Sung-ho), of misrepresenting Buddhist values and teachings by impersonating a monk during his club appearance, angering the Malaysian Buddhist community.
“I agree with the Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM) and the Malaysian Buddhist Association, who have called on the authorities to take action to prevent this Korean DJ from performing again in Kuala Lumpur nightclubs,” Wee stated in a press release.
Footage from May 3 captured New Jeans Nim, clad in traditional Buddhist monk robes, performing at a dance club in the Malaysian capital. The president of the Malaysian Chinese Association criticized the act, saying it was “insensitive and hurtful” to Buddhists, who will commemorate Wesak Day, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, in two weeks.
The lawmaker urged the Home Affairs Minister to “instruct the Immigration Department, police, and the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (Puspal) to bar the DJ’s entry into Malaysia out of respect for the sanctity of religion.”
New Jeans Nim had been scheduled to perform again in Malaysia on May 21, the day before Wesak Day, but his entry into the country is now uncertain due to the backlash.
“The Buddhist community would have had no intention of obstructing any artist’s performance if the DJ had not impersonated a monk during his act, inciting religious sensitivities and unnecessary controversy,” Wee asserted.
YBAM also reported receiving complaints from devotees who believed New Jeans Nim’s club performance disrespected and mocked the Buddhist way of life.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
