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July 27, 2026Short & citedBlog
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FetLife

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

Updated July 27, 20261 min readCited sources

FetLife is an adult social networking website focused on BDSM, fetishism, and kink, launched in 2008 in Montreal, Quebec. It positions itself as a community platform rather than a dating site.

What it is

FetLife is a niche social network for adults interested in BDSM, fetish, and kink. It emphasizes community discussion, networking, and shared interests, differentiating itself from dating services. The name combines "fet" from fetish with "life".

History and origin

The site was launched in January 2008 by John Kopanas (also known as John Baku), based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is operated by BitLove Inc. and has grown into a large online community for the kink and fetish scene.

Key details

FetLife is not a dating site but a social network. It is owned by BitLove Inc. and remains active. Available sources confirm its Canadian origin and founder. The platform's branding stresses its community-first identity.

In short

  • Social network for BDSM, fetish, and kink communities
  • Launched in 2008 in Montreal, Canada
  • Not a dating site – emphasizes community and networking
  • Founded by John Kopanas (John Baku)
Canadian angle

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

Quick questions

Who is FetLife?
FetLife is not a person; it is an adult social networking website focused on BDSM, fetishism, and kink.
How old is FetLife?
FetLife was launched in 2008, so it is 18 years old in 2026.
What is FetLife's real name?
FetLife does not have a real name because it is a website, not an individual.

Sources

  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.