ALBAWABA - On Wednesday, South Korea stunned the world and ignited controversy after announcing the world's first humanoid robot monk at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul, Reuters reported.
South Korea's humanoid robot monk is called "Gabi", and it performed Buddhist ceremonies ahead of Buddha's birthday.
The event caused controversy and split religious people about whether Monk Gabi can pray or perform all religious activities.
However, the unveiling of Monk Gabi reminds people of the growing connection between artificial intelligence (AI) technology and traditional religious practices.
Gabi (C), a humanoid robot dressed as a Buddhist monk, poses with Buddhist monks as it attends an ordination ceremony as part of celebrations for the upcoming Buddha's birthday. (Photo by YONHAP / AFP)
Monk Gabi was spotted wearing traditional Buddhist robes in grey and brown. It is about 130 cm in height.
It was placed beside senior monks during the ceremony.
Can Monk Gabi Pray?
According to sources, the world's first humanoid robot monk folded its hands in prayer and bowed respectfully to the monks leading the proceedings at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul yesterday.
The robot monk had a rosary with 108 beads around its neck as a symbolic act symbolizing the Buddhist teachings of discipline and spiritual purification.
And instead of the traditional incense-burning ritual, Monk Gabi received a symbolic sticker to emphasize its role as a non-human participant.
Gabi (C), a humanoid robot dressed as a Buddhist monk, poses with Buddhist monks as it attends an ordination ceremony as part of celebrations for the upcoming Buddha's birthday. (Photo by YONHAP / AFP)
