Chinese youth are increasingly using DeepSeek artificial intelligence models to obtain traditional fortune-telling readings known as “suan ming” [1, 2].

This shift reflects a growing intersection of ancient cultural practices and modern technology, as young people seek guidance amid rising societal pressures. By replacing human soothsayers with algorithms, users are changing how spiritual and predictive services are consumed in mainland China.

The trend has gained significant traction on social media platforms, particularly Weibo and WeChat [1, 2]. The hashtag #deepseeksuanming has accumulated over 55 million views [1]. While the DeepSeek AI model family first launched in 2023 [1], the practice accelerated throughout 2024 as more users shared their AI-generated readings online [1, 2].

Users said that AI-driven fortune-telling is faster and cheaper than visiting a traditional practitioner [1, 2]. Many young people said these digital readings are as effective as those provided by humans [1, 2]. The accessibility of the technology allows users to seek instant answers regarding their personal lives without the high costs associated with professional consultations.

Psychological factors drive the popularity of the trend. Many youth use the AI tools as a way to cope with stress related to their careers, education, and romantic relationships [1, 2]. The AI provides a low-stakes environment to explore potential futures, a digital escape from the competitive nature of modern Chinese life.

However, the trend is not without opposition. Some critics said the practice is a scam, arguing that AI models cannot provide genuine spiritual insight or accurate predictions [1, 2]. Despite these warnings, the volume of social media engagement suggests that the appeal of convenience and affordability outweighs the skepticism of critics [1, 2].

“The hashtag #deepseeksuanming has accumulated over 55 million views”

The adoption of AI for fortune-telling illustrates a broader trend of 'digital spirituality' where users prioritize accessibility and cost over traditional authenticity. As youth face increasing economic and social volatility, the reliance on algorithmic predictions suggests a shift in how a new generation manages anxiety and seeks certainty in an uncertain environment.