Gabi became the first robot to be ordained when it joined the biggest South Korean Buddhist sect, the Jogye Order, on May 6. In a statement, the order said that since humans have embraced technology, "technology must be used in accordance with the values of compassion, wisdom, and responsibility."
During the ceremony, Gabi presented the five precepts, or vows, for a Buddhist robot to live by: respecting life and not hurting it; not damaging other robots and objects; following humans and not talking back to them; not behaving or speaking deceptively; and saving energy and not overcharging.
It is expected that Gabi will take part in the Lotus Lantern Festival later in the month, a major celebration of Buddha’s birth in South Korea.
Clearly, humanoid robots are no longer a distant science fiction fantasy. From factory floors to hospital wards, these machines are beginning to take on tasks that were once performed only by humans.
The global humanoid robot market was valued at US$2.03 billion in 2024 and is forecast to surpass $13 billion by 2029. While development costs remain high and their everyday use is still somewhat limited, companies are constantly building smarter models with impressive artificial intelligence capabilities.
These new creations feature lifelike movements and can perform complex tasks in challenging environments. This gallery highlights some of the most innovative humanoid robots stepping into roles traditionally held by humans. Click to know more.