Viral Macaque’s Comfort Toy Sparks Global Ikea Sell-Out
A baby macaque named Punch captivated the world. His story emerged from Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan. Punch was abandoned by his mother shortly after birth. He faced rejection from other monkeys. Zookeepers stepped in to care for him. They gave him an Ikea Djungelskog orangutan plush toy for comfort. This toy became his constant companion.
A Viral Sensation
Videos of Punch and his plush toy quickly spread online. They showed him clinging to the toy for security. One popular clip showed an adult monkey dragging Punch by the toy. These images evoked strong emotions globally. Millions of viewers felt sympathy for the lonely macaque. The footage gained massive attention on platforms like TikTok. #HangInTherePunch and #GanbarePanchi became trending hashtags. This news quickly became a global story.
Ikea’s Beloved Djungelskog
The Ikea Djungelskog orangutan plush toy became a focal point. This popular toy was originally priced around $19.99. Zookeepers chose it for its soft fur and ease of holding. Its resemblance to a monkey was also a factor. It served as a surrogate mother for Punch. The bond between Punch and his toy resonated deeply.
Unprecedented Demand
The viral nature of Punch’s story drove incredible demand for the Djungelskog toy. Sales surged dramatically across the globe. Ikea Australia reported a 200% increase in sales within a week. Nearly 1,000 units sold across stores and online there. Listings on eBay Australia saw a 650% spike in January and February. Prices on resale sites climbed significantly. Some listings reached over $350. The toy sold out in many locations worldwide. This included stores in the US, Japan, and South Korea.
Ikea’s Heartwarming Response
Ikea itself acknowledged the viral phenomenon. They posted an image featuring the toy. Their caption stated, “We’re ALL Punch’s family now”. This message touched many customers. Ikea Japan’s President Petra Fares even visited the zoo. She donated more plush toys to ensure Punch always had a companion. The company rebranded the toy in some markets as “Punch’s comfort orangutan”. This move strategically aligned with the trending news.
Punch’s Progress
Despite the attention, Punch’s story is one of resilience. He is now bonding with other monkeys in his troop. Caretakers observed him being groomed by another monkey. He plays with younger primates and receives embraces from elders. Punch is actively integrating and learning monkey ways. He still visits his beloved toy, but he is forming real social bonds. This news highlights the emotional intelligence of primates. It also shows how simple products can carry deep meaning. The Djungelskog toy became more than an item; it was a symbol of comfort and solidarity.
