Meet Gabi: The World’s First Robot Buddhist Monk

Gabi the robot has officially taken its vows, donned its robes, and joined the Buddhist faith in South Korea.

The 4-foot-3-inch robot was ordained at Jogye Temple in central Seoul on Wednesday. Gabi showed up dressed in ceremonial grey and brown robes, a beaded rosary, and flesh-colored gloves to match the occasion.

When the moment came, Gabi folded its hands in prayer, bowed to the monks officiating the ceremony, and delivered its vows before the congregation.

According to a Korean news outlet, Gabi was asked by a monk, “Will you devote yourself to the holy Buddha?” to which it replied without hesitation, “Yes, I will devote myself.”

The ceremony was held just ahead of Buddha’s birthday on May 24th, and Gabi is now set to lead chanting processions and serve as an honorary monk throughout the celebrations.