Viral baby monkey Punch’s plush toy sells out globally, fetches up to Rs 32,000 (Photos: @ImMeme0/X)

Viral baby monkey Punch’s orangutan plush toy has officially sold out in multiple countries, with resale prices now soaring to more than ten times its original cost.

According to a report by the New York Post, the $20 (Rs 1817) IKEA Djungelskog orangutan stuffed toy has become a highly sought-after collectible after being linked to Punch, a seven-month-old macaque at Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan.

Punch’s story first gained international attention when photos showed the young macaque clinging tightly to the plush toy. As reported by the New York Post, Punch had reportedly been rejected by his mother as well as other monkeys in his enclosure. Zoo staff introduced the stuffed orangutan to comfort him, and what followed captured hearts worldwide.

Images of Punch hugging, sleeping beside, and playing with the soft toy quickly went viral. Punch treated the plush almost like a surrogate parent, as he kept it close while resting, eating, and exploring his space.

The emotional bond struck a chord across social media platforms, triggering a global surge in demand for the IKEA toy. The New York Post reported that the Djungelskog orangutan sold out across IKEA stores in the United States, Japan, and South Korea in recent weeks.

The viral wave even prompted an official response from IKEA Japan. According to the New York Post, Petra Fare, President and Chief Sustainability Officer of IKEA Japan, personally visited Ichikawa City Zoo to donate several replacement Djungelskog plush toys to ensure Punch would always have a companion.

Online demand, however, has driven the toy into reseller territory. As per the New York Post’s report, listings for the orangutan plush began appearing on eBay at significantly marked-up prices.

One seller from Allen, Texas reportedly purchased 17 of the toys and listed them at $51.99 each. Twelve were said to have sold in a single day. In one extreme case, a Djungelskog plush was listed for as much as $350 (Rs 31803).

Punch’s story has not only fuelled a retail frenzy but also pointed out the emotional intelligence of primates.

Macaques are known for strong maternal bonds and complex social hierarchies. Rejection by a mother or group can have serious behavioural consequences for young monkeys, which is why enrichment tools, including soft objects, are sometimes used in zoological care to provide comfort and reduce stress.