Outflanked by AI, South Korea's blind fortune-tellers fade into obscurity
In the quiet village of Mia, an 86-year-old blind fortune-teller fights to preserve a centuries-old tradition as AI divination takes the world by storm. Explore how modern technology is reshaping belief, community, and the very essence of fortune-telling in South Korea.
Seoul, South Korea is witnessing a shift in the fortunes of its blind fortune-tellers as artificial intelligence becomes the preferred choice for many seeking guidance. At 86, Song Oh-soon remains one of the last practitioners in a community that once numbered 70 to 80 members, but now struggles to attract clients. The village, once bustling with visitors, now experiences silence and solitude, with only a few remaining practitioners.
InnoForest reports a thriving fortune-telling business in South Korea worth 1.4 trillion won in 2024, with many now turning to AI chatbots like ChatGPT for readings. Despite the decline, Song believes that fortune is not predetermined and that wise decisions can lead to good outcomes. The village emerged in 1966 and grew during Seoul's boom in the 1970s and 1980s, offering affordable rents and foot traffic for its fortune-tellers.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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