At a zoo in Tokyo, visitors stop when they see a small monkey holding a stuffed toy.

Punch-Kun was born in July 2025, but his mother left him soon after he was born. Zoo workers took care of him and fed him by hand. “He was very small and needed us every day,” one caretaker said. The staff made sure he stayed warm and safe.

Learning to Be with Others

When he became stronger, Punch-Kun was placed with other monkeys. But he had a hard time joining them.

He stayed quiet and kept his distance. Instead of playing, he chose to sit alone. He started holding a stuffed toy for comfort. The toy became part of his daily life. “When he feels scared, he hugs the toy,” a caretaker shared. The workers noticed that the toy helps him stay calm.

A Story That Touched Many

People began sharing his photos and videos online. Many said they felt both happy and sad seeing him. They saw how a small toy could bring big comfort. His story quickly spread to many places.

Zoo staff are patient as Punch-kun slowly learns to trust other monkeys. They believe he will grow braver in time. “He is improving step by step,” a caretaker said. For now, the little monkey and his toy remind people that everyone needs comfort, even animals.