[ Future Wave] Homo Ludens: The Unique Essence of Humanity in the Age of AI

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology fundamentally compels us to reconsider the definition of human existence. We are witnessing a reality where many abilities, once believed to be unique to humans, are being swiftly replaced by AI. Even traits considered inherently human?such as reasoning, creativity, and problem-solving abilities?are being challenged by the progress of AI technology. AI is now capable not only of logical reasoning but also of performing so-called emotional tasks such as creative work, and it even exhibits empathetic responses in conversations with humans.

Traditionally, we have defined humans as "thinking beings." "Homo Sapiens" means "wise human" in Latin, and humans have been regarded as beings who use language and build civilizations based on reason and logic. Additionally, the concept of "Homo Faber" described humans as "beings who make and use tools." These definitions have formed the foundation of anthropocentrism since the modern era, becoming even more entrenched through the industrial and information societies.

Today, these definitions can no longer be considered absolute. AI has now evolved to a level where it can understand human reasoning, judgment, and emotional context. The concept of humans as toolmakers and users has also long ceased to be an exclusively human trait due to automation and robotics. As machines imitate humans?and sometimes even surpass us?we are compelled to ask once again: What is the true essence that makes humans uniquely human?

In grappling with these questions, we should revisit the insights of Johan Huizinga, a Dutch cultural historian from the mid-20th century. In his book "Homo Ludens," Huizinga proposed "play" as the essence that defines human existence. He did not regard play as mere entertainment or leisure, but rather as an essential activity that has fostered human creativity and cultural development. According to Huizinga, the essence of play lies above all in spontaneity and freedom. He emphasized that this is a uniquely human capacity: the ability to voluntarily accept rules while simultaneously exercising boundless imagination within them.

Recently, the World Economic Forum identified "playfulness" as one of the most important competencies for the future. Playfulness is the ability to actively participate in play with imagination and to genuinely enjoy the process itself. It also refers to the ability to enrich the meaning of play by maintaining a balance between cooperation and competition in interactions with others. No matter how advanced AI becomes, machines will not be able to experience genuine fun, immersion, or joy in the process. In contrast, humans possess the ability to change existing rules or create new frameworks through play. In this sense, play is a core domain that fundamentally distinguishes humans from machines.

We must seriously consider how to preserve and develop the unique essence of humanity in the world ahead. If the domain that machines find most difficult to imitate is human spontaneous play, then we should regard playfulness as an essential competency for the future and actively cultivate it. When we return to being humans who play, even in the AI era, humanity can remain at the center.

Seo Yongseok, Professor at KAIST Graduate School of Future Strategy