As a Buddhist student, Haejin trained and studied in both the United States and South Korea. He entered formal training in South Korea as a Buddhist Monk in the Taego Order of Korean Buddhism. Upon completing his studies, he was ordained and was given the title: Sunim. Upon returning to the United States, Haejin Sunim founded the Taego Zen Center in New Jersey. Haejin Sunim is now the Vice Bishop of Taego Order Overseas Parrish and a member of the New York City Buddhist Council.
