Virtual temple visits have gone viral, drawing hundreds of thousands of daily users in South Korea and quickly spreading to Vietnam. This new way of worship raises questions about its spiritual value.

Venerable Thich Khai Thanh warns that true spiritual merit comes from compassion and ethical conduct, not from clicking icons, virtual gifts or reward points. He also says that virtual spaces can give temporary relief from everyday pressure, but they lack the sincere intention needed for genuine practice.

The monk outlines three key principles for online Buddhist activities. First, the content must stay faithful to Buddhist teachings. Second, merit, blessings and faith should never become purchasable rewards or points. Third, digital activities should encourage participants to return to real‑life practice.

He adds that donations must be transparent and not exploit believers; buying merit with money contradicts Buddhist teachings. Vietnam Buddhist Sangha officials state that such digital platforms are only supplementary tools and cannot replace the full spiritual experience of visiting a real temple.

In short, virtual temple visits can offer a convenient introduction and brief comfort, but lasting spiritual growth still depends on sincere intention, ethical behavior, and real‑world practice. Readers should see online rituals as a supplement, not a substitute, for authentic Buddhist life.