Yoon Seong-ho’s Unlikely Journey: From Comedy Star to Hip Buddhist Icon

This week on TV Chosun‘s popular culinary travel show, viewers are in for a spiritual and flavorful journey as comedian Yoon Seong-ho explores Gangnam, Seoul alongside a surprising figure — the buzzworthy Buddhist figure known as ‘NewJin Monk’ (unofficial translation), claimed by Yoon to be his twin.

Airing at 10:20 PM on May 4, the episode celebrates Buddha’s Birthday with a tour from the serene Jogyesa Temple to Seoul’s elite Daechi-dong education district, while spotlighting Korea’s rich food heritage and spiritual awakenings.

The ‘NewJin Monk’ is making waves by bridging Buddhism with pop culture, appealing to younger generations through what’s described as “hip” Buddhist events. The monk’s unique English Dharma name — a blend of the word ‘New’ and the Sino-Korean character for progress ‘Jin (進)’ — even earned admiration from established Buddhist leaders.

Yoon, known for his signature character ‘Bbakgu’ and tall-model debut, shares both humor and introspection in the show. As the episode unfolds, the comedian appears post-transformation, swapping the Buddhist Robes for personal candor about his journey studying in China at age 50, becoming trilingual, and enduring a viral rejection from a North Korean classmate.

He humorously recounts the moment she refused a photo with him, saying, “I can’t — you look too weird,” capturing laughs amid deeper insights. Yoon also showcases his fluency in Chinese, prompting on-air interpretation feats from the show’s host — a rare glimpse into the host’s hidden language talents.

After facing career slumps and a hacked YouTube reboot attempt, Yoon sought redemption — taking Body Profile shoots, acquiring a Waxing National Certification, and ultimately becoming a top pick for Buddhism-themed events. It’s a story of loss, personal reinvention, and a mission to reach Paradise, both metaphorically and spiritually.

Don’t miss a transformative episode combining K-comedy, inner healing, and soulful cuisine this week on TV Chosun.