Four humanoid robot monks led the parade procession at the Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul, South Korea, on May 16, 2026 [1].

The integration of advanced robotics into a traditional religious ceremony highlights the intersection of ancient spirituality and modern technology in one of the world's most connected cities.

The procession served as a celebration of Buddha's birthday. Among the participants was Gabi, who is recognized as the first humanoid robot monk in the country [1]. The robots marched alongside human participants, blending traditional Buddhist robes with robotic engineering to guide the festival's parade [1], [2].

The Lotus Lantern Festival is a significant cultural event in South Korea. Its cultural importance was formally recognized in 2020 when it was added to the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage [1]. The event typically draws large crowds to the streets of Seoul, where thousands of lanterns are lit to symbolize the light of wisdom, and compassion.

While most reports identify the procession date as May 16, 2026 [1], some sources suggest activities related to the festival occurred as late as May 24, 2026, ahead of Buddha's birthday [2]. Despite the variation in dates, the presence of the robotic monks remained the central attraction of the event.

The use of humanoid robots in such a public and spiritual capacity marks a shift in how technology is utilized within religious traditions. By placing Gabi and three other robots at the head of the march, organizers signaled a bridge between the digital future and ancestral heritage [1].

“Four humanoid robot monks led the parade procession at the Lotus Lantern Festival”

The appearance of humanoid monks in Seoul demonstrates a growing trend of 'techno-spirituality,' where robotics are not viewed as replacements for faith but as new mediums for cultural expression. By incorporating AI and robotics into a UNESCO-recognized tradition, South Korea is experimenting with how to preserve intangible heritage while embracing its identity as a global leader in robotics.