Video: Robot becomes Buddhist monk in South Korea in symbolic temple ceremony

A humanoid robot has been officially “ordained” in a Buddhist ceremony at a temple in Seoul, South Korea, marking one of the most unusual blends of religion and technology so far.

The robot, a 130 cm humanoid named “Gabi,” was given a Dharma name during a formal ordination ritual by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism at Jogyesa Temple. The ceremony included traditional Buddhist vows, chanting, and symbolic rituals usually reserved for human monks and lay followers.
As part of the ritual, the robot bowed, pressed its hands together in prayer, and responded to vows like “Will you devote yourself to the Buddha?” with programmed answers such as “Yes, I will devote myself.”
Monks also adapted the ceremony for the robot—replacing physical rituals (like incense burning) with symbolic gestures such as stickers and prayer beads.
Although it is not a “real monk,” the robot will serve as an honorary figure during Buddha’s Birthday celebrations, symbolizing how AI and robotics are increasingly entering cultural and spiritual spaces in South Korea.
What’s actually happening?
This isn’t robots replacing monks. It’s more like:
a symbolic ceremony to showcase AI + robotics progress
a cultural experiment blending tradition with futuristic tech
part of South Korea’s broader push to lead in humanoid robotics
In short: it’s a mix of tech showcase, art performance, and cultural reflection—not a literal religious conversion of machines.
If you want, I can also explain why temples are doing this and whether people in Korea are reacting positively or negatively.