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July 27, 2026Sources cited
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FetLife

FetLife is an adult social networking website focused on BDSM, fetishism, and kink communities.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

FetLife is an adult social networking website focused on BDSM, fetishism, and kink communities. It was launched in 2008 and is operated by BitLove Inc. The platform is known for presenting itself as a social network rather than a dating site.

Overview

FetLife is a niche social networking site built around BDSM, fetish, and kink interests. It is commonly described as a social network for the fetish community rather than a traditional dating platform.

History

The site was launched in 2008 and is linked to John Kopanas, who used the name John Baku. Available sources place its origin in Montreal, Quebec.

Community and purpose

FetLife is designed for users to connect around shared sexual interests and subcultures. Public descriptions emphasize community participation, discussion, and networking.

Naming and identity

The name combines "fet" from fetish with "life". The platform’s branding stresses that it is a social network, not a dating site.

Key facts

  • FetLife is a social network for adults interested in BDSM, fetish, and kink.
  • It differentiates itself from dating services by emphasizing community and social networking.
  • The site was launched in January 2008.
  • The platform is associated with John Kopanas, also known as John Baku.
  • Sources describe it as a large online community for the kink and fetish scene.
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Canadian context

FetLife is relevant to Canada because it was launched in Montreal, Quebec, by Canadian founder John Kopanas (John Baku).

Frequently asked questions

Who is Fetlufe?
FetLife is not a person; it is an adult social networking website focused on BDSM, fetishism, and kink.
How old is Fetlufe?
FetLife was launched in 2008, so it is 18 years old in 2026.
What is Fetlufe's real name?
FetLife does not have a real name because it is a website, not an individual.
How did Fetlufe become famous?
It became known as a niche social network for the BDSM and kink community and for positioning itself as a community platform rather than a dating site.
What happened to Fetlufe?
No source indicates that FetLife has shut down; the available information describes it as an active social networking website.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FetLife
    Supports: Describes FetLife as a social networking website for BDSM, fetishism, and kink, and notes its distinction from dating sites.
  2. Portuguese Wikipedia — https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/FetLife
    Supports: States that FetLife was launched in January 2008 by John Kopanas (John Baku), a software engineer in Montreal, Quebec.
  3. Spanish Wikipedia — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/FetLife
    Supports: States that FetLife was launched in January 2008 by John Kopanas (John Baku) and explains the name's fetish-related meaning.
  4. Wikidata — https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5445894
    Supports: Identifies FetLife as an adult social networking website.
  5. eSafety Commissioner — https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-topics/esafety-guide/fetlife
    Supports: Describes FetLife as a social network for the fetish community.