Viral monkey Punch has a girlfriend now and the world’s heart is melting

Everyone loves the adorable baby monkey who became famous online, and now there’s even more good news! He’s made a close friend – another young macaque monkey – and videos of their sweet bond are going viral.

Punch, a baby Japanese macaque at the Ichikawa City Zoo, captured the world’s attention when videos surfaced of him carrying a stuffed animal. He seemed to find comfort in the toy after being separated from his mother.

Recently, a heartwarming video has appeared online showing the little monkey interacting with another young macaque named Moe, and people are loving the sweet scene.

Punch and Moe share cute moments together

Visitors to the zoo on March 16th captured video of the two young monkeys behaving naturally – cuddling, grooming each other, and playing like normal babies.

A popular photo captures the pair initially sitting apart, then turning to face each other in a moment fans have playfully referred to as a “kiss.”

Follow Punch, a little monkey, on his big adventure! 🐒 This post shows Punch and Moe after a date ❤️. Rooting for you, Punch! #Punch #Panchi #Panch #PunchsAdventure #OranMama #Punchi #CityOfIchikawaZoo #PunchTheMonkey

— ミハミハ (@mihamiha_trend) March 16, 2026

A heartwarming video shows Moe gently playing with Punch’s tail while they relax together, and then Punch lovingly hugs her. The adorable clips have quickly gone viral, with many people online jokingly calling Moe Punch’s new girlfriend.

The baby monkey forming a connection with Moe is a big improvement for Punch, who previously struggled to fit in with the group and often fought with the other monkeys.

パンチくんとモモちゃんは仲良し💕#市川市動植物園#がんばれパンチ

— Mofumofu−4 (@Mofumofu0004) March 16, 2026

Punch is still attached to his favorite IKEA stuffed animal, but it seems he’s made a new friend to play with!

Ichikawa Zoo has more good news: people from around the world can now donate to help care for Punch and the zoo’s other animals.

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2026-03-17 13:50