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A new trend gaining momentum in China involves young women paying up to ₹600 (50 yuan) for a simple five-minute hug from men known as ‘man mums.’ Social media has been buzzing with interest in this unconventional form of emotional support, which many say helps relieve stress and anxiety in their daily lives.
Who Are 'Man Mums'?
According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the term ‘man mum’ initially referred to muscular men, often gym-goers with a strong physical presence. However, the definition has since evolved. Today, a ‘man mum’ is seen as a man who balances physical strength with nurturing traits, someone who is gentle, patient, and emotionally available.
These individuals are selected based on their body type, manners, and overall demeanour. Some women even consider tall, athletic women for the role, though the majority still prefer men who embody a mix of masculine presence and emotional warmth.
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How the Trend Started
The term gained public attention after a viral social media post by a stressed-out student. She expressed a desire to pay for a hug to cope with the pressure of writing her thesis.
“I was hugged once in secondary school and felt safe. We can just hug for five minutes at an underground station,” she wrote.
Her post resonated with thousands, collecting over 100,000 comments. Since then, women across major Chinese cities have been searching for "man mums" online, hoping to experience the same sense of comfort.
Where and How These Hugs Happen
These paid hugs are usually arranged through private chats on messaging and social media platforms. Meetings often take place in public spaces like subway stations, shopping malls, or parks, ensuring both safety and a sense of neutrality.
The cost ranges from 20 to 50 yuan (approximately ₹250 to ₹600) depending on location and duration. The standard hug lasts five minutes, but the emotional value is what clients are truly paying for.
The rise of ‘man mums’ shows how people are adapting to meet emotional needs in a high-pressure, digitally connected world. Whether viewed as a temporary escape or a deeper societal signal, it’s clear that these short, paid moments of physical comfort are meeting a very real demand among China’s young women.
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