Situation changes

Xu Yongjun, a professor of information management at Renmin University of China, said that in the past, the marginalization of homebodies not only reflected their weak position socially, but also their peripheral role in dominating ideology.

"Since mainstream culture cannot persuade otaku to take part in social activities, they resist such culture in their own ways," Xu said.

But he added that the situation now is totally different. "The COVID-19 outbreak has produced a comprehensive change in people's way of thinking and lifestyle, giving otaku culture a new meaning.

"The vast majority of people had no choice but to stay home. The focus on being homebodies extends from traditional otaku elements such as animation, cosplay or entertainment idols to new ones such as culture and science, tourism and public spaces."

During the outbreak, with travel off-limits to many people due to restrictions imposed around the world, the desire to stay home has become stronger. However, travel remains a hot topic for discussion on social media platforms, as well as cooking and baking.

Xu said that as outdoor activities have dwindled during the pandemic, the rising number of otaku has resulted in the "stay-at-home economy" booming.

Online medical services and food deliveries, as well as livestreamed fitness and education classes, have grown rapidly in the first quarter of this year.

Offline businesses quickly shifted to online operations, while supermarkets launched delivery services, catering to more customers staying home.

Consumers have been urged to order goods via phone apps, and e-commerce platforms have helped farmers promote their products via livestreaming.

Xu said: "Crisis breeds opportunity. A new economic model is in the making. Enterprises are expected to transform themselves by introducing robots and online training. A new batch of large or super-large platforms may emerge in the near future.

"These trends will provide more life choices and possibilities for otaku. In the future, the functionality of homes will expand considerably and more and more people may become homebodies."