Researchers at Kyoto University in Japan have introduced an AI robot monk called "Buddharoid," capable of answering profound questions that people struggle to discuss with others. The robot, trained on Buddhist scriptures, is designed to counsel people on psychological and emotional problems, and is intended to address the future shortage of human monks. The robot was created by Professor Kohei Ogawa from the Graduate School of Advanced Integrated Intelligence Research. He built the AI robot monk by installing a "BuddhaBotPlus" system — powered by technology like OpenAI — onto a Chinese-made Unitree G1 humanoid robot body. At the unveiling ceremony on February 24, the faceless robot wore a grey robe and demonstrated walking and performing a prayer gesture. It also counseled a reporter who opened up about severe anxiety, speaking in a calm voice and advising them to find inner peace and let go of their worries. Kyoto University noted that the ethical questions surrounding the use of technology in religious contexts need further discussion. However, given Japan's declining population and growing elderly demographic, it is hoped that in the future, these AI robots could take the place of humans in certain religious practices — representing a significant cultural transformation. Ref: The Straits Times