South Korea is now embracing a fascinating blend of ancient spirituality and cutting-edge technology, where AI-powered “robot magicians” are modernizing the traditional practice of fortune telling.
In central Seoul, a cultural products store called Vineda is turning the traditional “mudang” experience into a digital one.
At the heart of this experience lies the integration of generic AI, voice recognition and robotics, along with mechanized sketching arms and human-face projections to simulate interactions with a magician.
Visitors come to the shop and consult virtual magicians and ask about their future and fortune. These AI exorcists use Saju, the four pillars of destiny, to interpret a person’s afterlife by calculating their birth year, date, and time.
Fortune telling is deeply embedded in South Korean culture, but people consider traditional shamanic rituals to be intimidating. Given the rise of AI models, these tech-powered shamans offer a light-hearted alternative that appeals to young people.
Interestingly, these virtual magicians communicate in four languages including English, Korean, Japanese and Chinese to cater to the needs of the diverse diaspora.
Since opening in February, the shop sees an average of 100 visitors per day, and services are priced at an affordable 8,000 won.
Store manager Kim Hae-seol said, “Having something tangible or meaningful for customers to take away is probably why many people don’t feel dissatisfied.”
“We thought it had the potential to be successful, so we embraced the concept.”
