A Seoul-based shop called Vinaida is using artificial intelligence to provide traditional Korean fortune-telling services [1, 2].

The venture represents a shift in how spiritual practices are delivered in South Korea, blending ancient beliefs with modern automation to attract a wider demographic. By removing the human element from the initial ritual, the service seeks to make spiritual guidance more accessible to those who may find traditional shamanism intimidating [1, 2].

Vinaida utilizes facial-scan technology to analyze users and robotic "shaman" avatars to deliver readings [1, 2]. These digital entities generate "saju" readings, which are traditional four-pillar fortunes based on the date and time of a person's birth [1, 2]. This process serves as a digital alternative to the live rituals typically performed by mudang, or traditional Korean shamans [1, 2].

The shop opened its doors in early 2024 [1, 2]. The business model targets both local residents and tourists by offering a tech-driven spiritual experience that fits the fast-paced environment of the city [1, 2].

Traditional mudang practices have long been a part of Korean culture, but they often involve intense rituals and personal interactions. Vinaida replaces these with microchips and algorithms, creating a bridge between historical mysticism and the current AI boom [1, 2]. This approach allows the shop to scale the delivery of saju readings without the need for a large number of certified practitioners [1, 2].

“Vinaida blends traditional Korean shamanism with artificial intelligence.”

The integration of AI into shamanistic practices suggests a broader trend of 'digital spirituality' in East Asia. By automating the role of the mudang, Vinaida is commodifying traditional cultural heritage into a scalable tech product, reflecting a societal shift where algorithmic precision is viewed as a viable substitute for human intuition in spiritual matters.