Punch, a 7-month-old Japanese monkey, suddenly became an Internet "star" after heartbreaking videos were shared by tourists. Images of Punch hugging a stuffed animal in the shape of a orangutan everywhere have attracted more than 40 million views on social networking platforms in February alone.
Being rejected by his mother, Punch faces many difficulties in integrating into the herd. The footage records the scene of him being chased away and pushed by other monkeys, having to sit alone with his only stuffed "friend" as a spiritual support.
The story touched the hearts of the majority of viewers and was simultaneously published by major international news agencies such as BBC News, The New York Times and Forbes.
On social networks, many people consider Punch a symbol of resilience. An Instagram user shared: "Adversity is not misfortune, but the beginning of something new".
Recent images have brought hope as some members of the herd began to approach, brush their fur and hug Punch. That change has made the public even more interested in the little monkey's integration journey.
A zoo representative said: "Despite being scolded, Punch still showed incredible mental strength. We hope everyone will support his efforts instead of just pity him.
Punch's popularity also created a commercial "fever" for Ikea's stuffed animal model - an item the monkey always carries. Ikea then posted a heartwarming message: "Sometimes, family is the people you meet on the street. Now, we are all Punch's family". The sales of this toy model are currently skyrocketing in Japan, the US and South Korea.
To protect Punch from the overwhelming number of visitors, the zoo management has strengthened fences and asked visitors to remain silent and not use cameras when visiting.
