Singer and actor Lee Seung-gi has been recognized for his contributions to the Buddhist community and awarded the Buddhist Award.
On the 5th, at the Buddha's Birthday celebration ceremony held at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Lee Seung-gi was selected for the 2025 Buddhist Award and received a plaque of appreciation from the head of the Jogye Order, Monk Jinwoo.
The Buddhist Award is given to Buddhists who practice the teachings of Buddha in their daily lives and live a Buddhist life.
The selection committee for the Jogye Order's Buddhist Award stated that Lee Seung-gi was chosen because he "participated in various Buddhist events" and "especially played a significant role in conveying the values and emotions of Buddhism through his portrayal of a shaved-headed monk in the movie 'Big Family.'
The film 'Big Family,' which was released in December last year, depicts the unexpected cohabitation of a dumpling restaurant owner (Kim Yoon-seok) whose family line is cut off due to his son (Lee Seung-gi) becoming a monk, as adorable grandchildren visit him for the first time. Lee Seung-gi made headlines by shaving his head for the character in the film.
Additionally, Lee Seung-gi contributed to public outreach by serving as the host for the National Music Concert at the International Meditation Conference last year and donated 100 million won to the Jogye Order's construction project 'Building for a Thousand Years.'
Originally a Christian, Lee Seung-gi is said to have converted to Buddhism before marrying his wife, Lee Da-in. The couple married in 2023 and has one daughter.
[Lee Da-kyum, Star Today Reporter]
