Beijing: A unique emotional support trend known as “Man Mums” is gaining momentum in China, where young women are paying for comforting hugs to cope with stress. These services, offered by emotionally sensitive men, aim to provide relief during difficult moments such as academic pressure, work fatigue, and personal hardships.
For a fee ranging from 20 to 50 yuan (approximately ₹250 to ₹600) for a five-minute hug, clients can book sessions through chat apps. The meetings typically take place in public spaces like malls or subway stations. The men, referred to as “Man Mums,” are chosen for their patience, demeanor, and physical presence. Some clients also engage in private chats prior to the meeting for added emotional connection.
ALSO READ: Elon Musk Deletes Post Linking Trump to Epstein Scandal, Sparks Speculation
The trend went viral after a female student posted about her need for a comforting hug to deal with thesis-related stress. Her post received over 100,000 comments, highlighting a widespread emotional need among young women in urban China.
While some users describe the hugs as therapeutic and calming, the trend has also drawn criticism. Legal experts have raised concerns about the potential for misuse, warning that such interactions—if not properly regulated—could lead to incidents of inappropriate behavior or harassment.
Despite the concerns, the demand continues to grow. One woman described meeting a “Man Mum” after working overtime for three hours. “I talked to him about my boss, and he gently patted my shoulder and consoled me,” she said, calling it a moment of unexpected emotional relief.