South Korea's 'Gabi' robot monk

South Korea's Buddhist community has welcomed its first humanoid robot monk, Gabi, in a traditional ordination-style ceremony at Jogye Temple in Seoul.

The robot, which can perform bows and recite precepts, was presented with a rosary and a Buddhist name as part of the celebrations for Buddha's Birthday.

Developers stated that Gabi is designed to explore the intersection of technology and spirituality, prompting reflections on the nature of human consciousness.

The introduction of the robot monk has sparked widespread interest and debate about the role of artificial intelligence in religious practice and the search for enlightenment.