A baby macaque monkey named Punch, rejected by his mother at birth, has captivated the internet and triggered a surge in sales for a specific IKEA plush toy. The story, originating at the Koyasan Korin-en animal park in Japan, quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing attention from celebrities and prompting an outpouring of sympathy.
Punch was born at the park but was reportedly abandoned by his mother shortly after birth. Zoo staff noticed the infant monkey seeking comfort in a DJUNGELSKOG soft toy – a $19.99 orangutan – provided as enrichment. Images and videos of Punch embracing the plush, dubbed “Ora-Mama” by online users, went viral, amassing over five million views, according to the Daily Mail.
The unexpected consequence of Punch’s story has been a dramatic increase in demand for the IKEA DJUNGELSKOG orangutan. Business Insider reported that the toy is flying off shelves and appearing at inflated prices on resale websites. IKEA Japan responded to the viral sensation by delivering a lifetime supply of the plush toys to the Koyasan Korin-en zoo, ensuring Punch will have a continuous supply of “Ora-Mama.”
The emotional resonance of Punch’s story has extended beyond social media. Former Manchester United striker Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez posted a video online visibly moved to tears while recounting the story of the abandoned monkey and his comfort object. “It breaks my heart,” Hernandez said in the video, as reported by both the Daily Mail and Goal.com.
The DJUNGELSKOG toy, designed by Ann-Cathrine Sigrid Ståhlberg, is a 14-inch plush orangutan featuring Velcro on its hands and feet, allowing it to be hung or held. Mashable reported that, despite the surge in popularity, the toy remained in stock at the time of reporting, with over 1,000 positive reviews.
The Daily Maverick reported that zoo visitors have been charmed by Punch’s story, and the BBC noted the heartwarming nature of the bond between the baby monkey and his stuffed companion. The situation remains ongoing, with the zoo continuing to monitor Punch’s development and well-being.
