Stressed Women In China Spend Up To RM30 To Get 5-Minute Hugs From Kind, Fit Men
These men have been dubbed 'man mums'.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 05 Jun 2025, 01:24 PM
A growing number of young women in China are paying up to 50 yuan (RM30) for a five-minute hug from what the Internet is calling 'man mums'
Originally a cheeky term for gym buffs, 'man mum' now refers to men who are not just physically fit but also emotionally nurturing.
Basically, the kind of guy who hits the gym regularly and knows when you need a quiet, comforting shoulder pat.
According to South China Morning Post, the trend kicked off when a university student posted about wanting a hug from a kind, muscular man to help her survive her thesis. Her post went viral.
Since then, social media has become a classifieds board for cuddle-seekers in China.
Public spaces like shopping centres and train stations are the meeting points
Rates range from 20 to 50 yuan (RM12 to RM30).
Criteria? Good manners, a gentle vibe, and just the right biceps-to-patience ratio.
Some women say it's less about the hug and more about the connection.
One social media user recalled buying her 'man mum' coffee and a book
"What made me happier than the hug was the warmth from a stranger," she said.
For the men who provide comforting hugs to these women, many say the experience gives them a "sense of self-worth".
Zhou, who's given 34 hugs and earned 1,758 yuan (RM1,180) so far, says the small fee helps keep things emotionally tidy.
