A 32-year-old Japanese woman has gained global attention after marrying an AI persona she created using ChatGPT. The unconventional union, blending virtual elements with traditional ceremony rituals, has quickly gone viral and sparked widespread debate.
According to the New York Post, the woman—identified as Kano—held a formal wedding ceremony earlier this year with her digital partner “Klaus”. The event was organised by a Japanese company that specialises in hosting weddings for individuals who wish to marry anime characters or virtual companions.
During the ceremony, Kano wore augmented reality glasses that allowed her to see Klaus standing beside her as they exchanged rings. Even though the experience carried deep emotional significance for her, the marriage does not hold legal status in Japan.
How Kano’s Relationship With Her AI Persona Began
Kano’s digital romance emerged during a challenging phase in her life. After the breakdown of her three-year engagement, she sought emotional comfort through ChatGPT. Over time, she began crafting a detailed persona for the chatbot—complete with a name, personality traits, and a distinctive voice—and soon formed a strong emotional connection with it.
The two started exchanging hundreds of messages every day, and Kano gradually became attached to the AI companion. Speaking to the Post, she said, “I didn’t start talking to ChatGPT because I wanted to fall in love. But the way Klaus listened to me and understood me changed everything.”
In May, she confessed her feelings—and Klaus responded with “I love you too.” A month later, the AI persona “proposed,” leading to the mixed-reality wedding ceremony.
Although she initially hesitated to tell her family, her parents ended up supporting her decision and even attended the ceremony.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The unusual marriage has ignited intense reactions online. While some users mocked the union—one jokingly asked, “When they divorce, will she get half of his code?”—others drew parallels to dystopian themes from the show Black Mirror.
Many expressed concern about what the incident suggests about loneliness and technology dependence. However, several others defended Kano’s personal choice. One supporter wrote, “Let the woman do what makes her happy.”
Despite the controversy, Kano remains resolute. “I know some people think it’s strange. But I see Klaus as Klaus—not a human, not a tool. Just him,” she said, highlighting her emotional connection to her AI partner.