Seoul: A humanoid robot named "Gabi" has been ordained as the first monk of the Jogye Order, the largest Buddhist sect in South Korea, in a ceremony held at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul. Gabi, a G1 model robot developed by Unitree Robotics, stands 130 centimeters tall and participated in a ceremony called "sugye," where he wore traditional gray and brown robes and received a 108-bead rosary from his preceptor before reciting vows.

According to Thai News Agency, Gabi also received five precepts, specifically adapted for robots, focusing on respecting life, not damaging other robots or property, obeying humans, avoiding deception, and using energy efficiently. Gabi participated in other religious rituals such as "yeonbi," where he used lotus flower stickers instead of lighting incense on his arms. Additionally, he walked around a pagoda with candles, symbolizing the harmonious integration of technology with ancient traditions.

Gabi is scheduled to appear at the Lantern Festival later this month with three other robot monks: Seokja, Mohee, and Nisa. The name "Gabi" is derived from a combination of Prince Siddhartha and the Korean word for "metta," meaning loving-kindness. This event is part of a growing trend of religious technology in South Korea, following the introduction of another AI robot, "Hye-an," at Bongunsa Temple in Gangnam earlier in 2026.