This 25-Year-Old Idol Trainee Just Announced That He Is Now A Monk

​Thailand-born, China-based idol trainee Mark Vachara recently surprised many when he revealed on March 13 that he has been ordained as a monk. When he first announced the news on his Instagram, many of his Chinese fans were shocked and wondered if this means that they would not be able to see him on stage again. 

However, his agency quickly assured his fans that this is a short term ordination, but did not reveal how long Mark will be living at the monastery. They explained that it is common for Buddhist men in Thailand to be ordained as a monk for any period between a week and three months. The monastic life is believed to build character, and men who have been ordained are regarded highly in society.

Fans were relieved to hear this as the 25-year-old has seen his popularity rise after taking part in the reality talent search Idol Producer in 2018. 

​Although he did not do well enough to make it to the final nine, which formed the group Nine Percent, Mark has continued to update his fans on his day-to-day life through his social media. 

When he was ordained as a monk, Mark had to shave off his hair and eyebrows, which somehow, made him even more attractive to his fans. 

“He has strong features, so he looks good even without hair and eyebrows,” one netizen wrote. Another added, “For those who think [Mark] looks bad, try shaving off  your eyebrows and take a look at yourself in the mirror. I can guarantee you’ll be surprised at how different you look.”