Punch effect! IKEA orangutan plush toy sells out after viral macaque video

An IKEA sales associate in Singapore told ABS-CBN that the plush toy has been out of stock since February 23, shortly after the video went viral on social media.

The surge in demand for the toy coincided with growing global fascination with Punch, the seven-month-old Japanese macaque who has become an overnight internet sensation.

Meanwhile, dozens of visitors continue to flock to Ichikawa City Zoo in Tokyo, Japan, hoping to catch a glimpse of Punch, whose emotional story and viral videos have resonated deeply with people worldwide.

A heartbreaking beginning

Punch was abandoned by his mother shortly after his birth in July last year at the zoo in Tokyo, Japan’s capital. For primates, maternal bonding in early life is essential for emotional development, social learning and survival. Without that bond, infants often struggle to integrate socially.

Deprived of maternal care, Punch instinctively sought comfort among adult macaques in the enclosure. But instead of acceptance, he faced repeated rejection. Adult monkeys pushed him away and, at times, even attacked him, leaving the infant isolated.

Finding comfort in a stuffed toy

With no maternal figure or social acceptance, Punch turned to an unlikely source of comfort — an orangutan stuffed toy provided by zoo keepers. The toy soon became his surrogate companion.

He sleeps with it, clutches it tightly and carries it wherever he goes, as though holding on to the warmth and security he was denied at birth.

Raised largely by zoo caretakers, Punch has also developed a strong emotional bond with his human keepers. Videos show him clinging tightly to them during feeding time, seeking reassurance and safety.

A story that touched the world

One particularly emotional viral video shows Punch running away in fear while clutching his stuffed toy after being kicked by adult macaques when he tried to approach them.

Despite repeated rejection, Punch continues to seek connection — a poignant reminder of the deep social and emotional needs shared by primates.

His story has resonated with millions worldwide. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of support, with users rallying behind the young macaque and creating hashtags such as #HangInTherePunch, expressing hope that he will eventually find acceptance and companionship.

As crowds continue to gather at the zoo, Punch’s journey from abandonment to global affection stands as both a heartbreaking and inspiring testament to resilience and the universal need for love and belonging.