ChatGPT is becoming Thailand’s go-to fortune teller. Users like Whan, 28, are ditching traditional palm readers for AI insights.
Fortune tellers can charge over 599 baht (£13.55) for a one-hour session. In a bid for instant answers, Whan prompted ChatGPT for insights into her relationship, asking, “Can you do it for me?” The AI responded enthusiastically, asking for her birth details to deliver personalized guidance.
This trend is catching fire on social media, where users share tips on using ChatGPT for everything from palm readings to astrological compatibility checks. 
Historical significance of fortune telling in Thailand cannot be understated. Known as “Mor Doo” or “doctors who see,” these advisors have long been part of Thai culture, consulted by everyone from politicians to students.
Estimates suggest the spiritual goods market in Thailand is worth between $304 and $456 million. Recent studies highlight that younger generations are eager consumers of online spiritual services, especially AI fortune telling apps.
Jirapat Wangcharoen, 27, finds success on TikTok with fortune-telling content. With a background in analyzing AI’s role in personal navigation, he emphasizes the urgency people feel.
“If they have a question at night, at 1am, they don’t want to linger on that… They go to ChatGPT or TikTok live to ask the question.”
— Jirapat Wangcharoen
Ruchi Agarwal from Mahidol University links peak interest in fortune reading to economic uncertainty. She notes that young people face increasing anxiety and are turning to digital divination tools as a coping mechanism.
“Young people have a feeling of [a lack] of control.”
— Ajarn Par, astrologist
Critics raise privacy concerns over using AI for personal readings. Some question whether ChatGPT can provide genuine insights, as human fortune tellers incorporate lived experience and intuition into their readings.
“A robot cannot touch your feelings.”
— Ajarn Par
Whan appreciates both formats. She enjoys human readings for their emotional connection while valuing AI for its immediacy.
As AI fortune-telling gains traction, user preferences and trust in technology will continually evolve.
