The Rise of ‘Man Mums’ in China: A New Trend in Emotional Support

In a world increasingly marked by stress and emotional detachment, young women in China are turning to ‘man mums’—men offering paid hugs for emotional relief. This phenomenon highlights the evolving nature of intimacy and support in modern society.

China’s Growing Trend of ‘Man Mums’: A Hug for Emotional Relief

In a world increasingly defined by digital connections yet marked by emotional isolation, a surprising trend is emerging in China: young women are paying for five-minute hugs from men known as “man mums.” This unique service, which offers a safe, non-romantic form of emotional relief, is gaining traction as loneliness and stress levels rise among the youth.

A New Kind of Comfort

The cost for a hug ranges from 20 to 50 yuan (approximately Rs 200 to Rs 600) for a five-minute session. These interactions are typically arranged through social media or chat apps, taking place in public spaces like malls, parks, or subway stations to ensure safety and transparency. For many women, the act of paying for a hug establishes clear boundaries, fostering a respectful interaction devoid of romantic complications.

As China’s younger generation grapples with intense work pressure, academic stress, and body image anxiety, the “man mum” phenomenon offers a temporary emotional anchor. One participant, Zhou, has provided 34 hugs and earned over 1,758 yuan (Rs 21,000). He finds fulfillment in helping women navigate their emotional struggles, while another man noted that hugging strangers has bolstered his self-worth.

Redefining Masculinity

Originally, the term "man mum" referred to muscular men symbolizing physical security. However, the criteria for these men have evolved. Today, women prioritize emotional qualities such as kindness, patience, and warmth, alongside physical comfort. The service is not about romance or therapy; it’s about providing platonic, consensual physical contact that fulfills a fundamental human need for touch and reassurance.

The Emotional Landscape

The rise of “man mums” reflects a deeper cultural reality: as digital hyperconnectivity increases, so does the sense of isolation. Many young women are turning to this trend as a safe space for vulnerability. One student, overwhelmed by thesis-related anxiety, sought a hug to recapture the sense of security she felt as a child. Another woman, known as Fox, shared her experience of bringing coffee and a book to her chosen “man mum,” highlighting the warmth of human connection in a brief encounter.

A Reflection of Modern Loneliness

This phenomenon is not merely about hugging; it encapsulates the emotional needs of a generation facing unprecedented loneliness. In a world that often feels distant, the “man mum” trend offers a glimpse into how individuals are creatively addressing unmet emotional demands. The structured, consensual nature of these interactions allows participants to experience comfort and solace without the complications that often accompany traditional relationships.

As this trend continues to gain popularity, it raises questions about the evolving nature of intimacy and emotional support in our fast-paced, high-stress lives. Whether viewed as a niche fad or a lasting cultural shift, the “man mum” phenomenon underscores a universal truth: in our quest for connection, we are finding new ways to embrace the warmth of human touch.