South Korean youths turn to AI before spiritual advisors, researchers say
South Korean theology researchers say young people's tendency to consult artificial intelligence before seeking spiritual guidance raises questions about faith formation and the future of pastoral care. An expert attributes the trend to fear of judgment rather than indifference to human relationships.
Theology researchers in South Korea, speaking to the Christian media outlet Christian Daily Korea, have pointed out that the habit of young people to turn first to artificial intelligence (AI) in spiritual matters creates significant questions. In their view, this affects not only the formation of faith, but also the future of pastoral care and the proper place of technology in Christian discipleship.
One of the experts interviewed, Choi Kwang-jin from Hoseo University, explained that concerns about forming relationships and fear of being judged are what initially prompt young people to turn to AI. He noted that young people sometimes feel a burden from the sense that they will be evaluated or judged.
However, the expert emphasized that AI has limitations, since knowledge and meaning are not the same thing. He also objected to the conclusion that this trend indicates a complete turning away from human relationships. According to Choi Kwang-jin, the problem is not indifference to community, but fatigue from wounded relationships.
