Robot novice monk receives Buddhist precepts in Seoul

May 6 (Asia Today) -- A humanoid robot received Buddhist precepts Wednesday in a special ordination-style ceremony at Jogye Temple in central Seoul, ahead of Buddha's Birthday celebrations.

The robot, named GI and standing about 4 feet 3 inches tall, was given the Buddhist name Gabi during the ceremony held in the courtyard of the temple's main hall.

The Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism organized the event to symbolize the coexistence of tradition and future technology. In Buddhism, receiving precepts is a ceremony in which followers vow to take refuge in the Buddha, his teachings and the monastic community.

Gabi entered wearing a robe and a helmet resembling a shaved head. Instead of the traditional ritual of lightly burning the arm with incense, monks placed a Lotus Lantern Festival sticker on the robot's arm and hung a necklace of 108 prayer beads around its neck.

When asked whether it would take refuge in the Buddha, the teachings and the monks, the robot answered, "Yes, I will."

The monks also adapted Buddhism's five precepts for a robot. The revised rules included respecting life, not damaging other robots or objects, following humans respectfully, avoiding deceptive actions and conserving energy by not overcharging.

After receiving its certificate, Gabi waved to spectators, walked around a pagoda and left the ceremony.

Gabi is scheduled to join the Lotus Lantern Parade in Jongno on May 16 with other robot companions named Seokja, Mohoe and Nisa.

The Jogye Order said the ceremony showed that technology should be used with compassion, wisdom and responsibility.

-- Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

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Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260506010000976

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This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 6:57 PM.