Humanoid robot officially takes monastic vows in Seoul
A historic event took place at Jogyesa Temple, the main Buddhist temple of South Korea: for the first time, a humanoid robot underwent the “sugye” initiation ritual. The humanoid named Gabi, developed by Unitree Robotics, officially took vows to follow the teachings of Buddha. The 130-centimeter-tall robot, dressed in a traditional monastic robe, precisely repeated the monks’ movements, performed bows, and received a spiritual name meaning “mercy.”
To adapt the ancient tradition to modern technology, some rituals were modified. Instead of the traditional branding ritual, a special sticker was placed on the robot’s arm, while the classic five precepts were rewritten with the help of neural networks. Gabi’s new “digital code” now includes commitments not to harm other machines, to obey humans, to tell the truth, and to use electricity efficiently.
The robot’s participation in the ceremony is part of a large-scale experiment by the Buddhist community aimed at integrating advanced technologies into spiritual life. Organizers emphasize that this does not mean recognizing the machine as having a soul, but rather demonstrates religion’s readiness to coexist with artificial intelligence. Gabi is expected to become one of the key participants in the upcoming Lotus Lantern Festival at the end of May.
Such initiatives show how ancient traditions are finding new forms of expression in the digital world. The use of humanoids in temples helps attract young people’s attention to culture and proves that technology can serve as a tool for spreading humanitarian values without losing the sacred meaning of religious rituals.
