The internet’s favorite monkey, Punch, might have found love at his zoo in Japan.
The seven-month-old primate, who lives in Ichikawa City Zoological and Botanical Gardens, has kept a now-popular IKEA plush toy close after his mother abandoned him. In new social media posts, the monkey is shown with a new friend, a female macaque named Moe, with one set of photos that capture them sitting together closely before sharing a “kiss.”
Another video shows the young companions wrestling while Punch’s beloved toy lies close by.
The new friendship, or possible relationship, seems to be progress for Punch, who’s been rejected by other monkeys in his enclosure, even going as far as getting into scuffles with them. The animal has still received a massive show of support by fans, including BLACKPINK member Lisa, who recently visited Punch and brought along his signature IKEA toy.
In a recent statement, the Ichikawa City Zoological explained that Punch is becoming more socialized and said that the monkey spends most of his days “peacefully,” despite videos showing him face “disciplinary” actions.
"The number of monkeys who look after or play with Punch is also increasing. Because of this, the time Punch spends away from his stuffed toy has increased," the statement read.
"We share your concerns about Punch, and all the zookeepers and staff will continue to work together to ensure that Punch can continue to live a healthy life as part of this troop of monkeys," read the statement’s conclusion.
Previously, the zoo revealed that primates that allegedly showed aggressive behavior towards Punch were temporarily removed from the habitat as a “temporary measure.”
