Viral baby monkey Punch’s plush toy prices hit Rs 32,000 after macaque’s heartbreaking story rocks social media

There's something special about animals that copy our own vulnerabilities, and it is these little moments that go viral online. Recently, a baby macaque named Punch, barely seven months old, has captured hearts everywhere with his inseparable bond to a plush orangutan toy. Abandoned yet resilient, this little guy's story reminds us how comfort can heal even the smallest souls.Viral clips show him clutching his fuzzy friend like a lifeline, sleeping curled up beside it, leaving an emotional mark on users online. What started as a zookeeper's kind gesture went viral and related goodies have become an online sensation.

Who is Punch- the baby monkey?

Punch, a seven-month-old Japanese macaque, was born in July 2025 at Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan but abandoned by his mother and troop soon after.

Zookeepers stepped in with an IKEA Djungelskog orangutan plush toy to soothe him, and the rest is viral history.Videos and photos of Punch hugging, playing with, and sleeping next to his orange plush have racked up views worldwide. He treats it like a surrogate parent, holding it close all day, much like a toddler clings to their favorite comfort object, according to a New York Post report.

Plush toy prices are touching a sky high

The $20, about Rs 1,817, Djungelskog toy sold out fast in the US, Japan, and South Korea, caused by Punch's fame. Resellers jumped on eBay and other sites, flipping them for huge prices .

One seller in Allen, Texas, bought 17 toys and listed each at $51.99 or Rs 4,72, selling 12 in one day.IKEA Japan President and Chief Sustainability Officer Petra Fare visited the zoo to donate more plush toys, ensuring Punch never runs short on cuddles, reported New York Post.

Why has it become so popular

Punch's story hits home because it taps into universal feelings of abandonment and the power of simple comforts. His daily routine, gripping the toy during play, naps, and even meals, evokes deep emotions, turning casual viewers into devoted fans.