What is skinship?

"Skinship" is a term that originated in Japan, combining the English word "skin" with the concept of "kinship." It refers to physical closeness and bonding through touch and intimate physical contact, typically in non-sexual contexts. This concept is often associated with the way physical affection is expressed in certain East Asian cultures, including hugging, holding hands, or any form of skin-to-skin contact that helps foster emotional closeness and bonding between people.

The term is popular in Korean culture as well, where it's used to describe the comfort and affection that is shared through physical contact, especially in friendships, family relationships, and romantic partnerships. In these cultures, skinship is seen as a vital way to express care and maintain strong bonds between people.

In a broader sense, skinship can apply to any practice or relationship where touch plays a fundamental role in building intimacy, loyalty, and mutual understanding. It's important to note that the appropriateness and frequency of such physical contact can vary greatly by culture, context, and personal boundaries.