Dress Up Like Bear And Chill: China Zoo Is Offering Rs 14 Lakh A Year, But With One Strict Rule

Published 23 June 2026 · india

Dress Up Like Bear And Chill: China Zoo Is Offering Rs 14 Lakh A Year, But With One Strict Rule Published By, Last Updated: June

Dress Up Like Bear And Chill: China Zoo Is Offering Rs 14 Lakh A Year, But With One Strict Rule Published By, Last Updated: June 23, 2026, 22:30 IST While interacting with tourists, the “bear performers” are not allowed to speak, though they may make purring sounds in non-emergency situations. A spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus) at the Conservation Park zoo in Medellin, Colombia. (AFP file photo) A zoo in central China is offering people an unusual job paying 100,000 yuan (about Rs 14 lakh) a year to dress up as black bears, roam enclosures and interact with visitors—so long as they follow one strict rule: no talking. The recruitment drive by Luohe Wildlife Zoo in Luohe city, Henan province, went viral after it was posted on June 13, according to Jiupai News.

The listing seeks individuals willing to wear bear costumes and act as part of the zoo’s animal attraction experience. The South China Morning Post reported that the quirky job has sparked widespread amusement online, with social media users calling it one of the most unusual theme-park style roles to surface in recent months. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and physically fit, with no gender restrictions. The job involves si hour shifts and four days off each month. While interacting with tourists, the “bear performers" are not allowed to speak, though they may make purring sounds in non-emergency situations. The costumes are described only as “soft," and it remains unclear whether they include cooling or ventilation systems, raising curiosity about working conditions inside the suits. The says workers may accept food offered by visitors and are encouraged to remain relaxed and playful during shifts.

Performers are free to lie down, rest or move around in animal-like ways, including jumping or climbing, depending on comfort. “It’s the freest position in our zone," the listing stated, adding that “the more bizarre, the more popular you’ll be." The zoo added that the role could suit both introverts and extroverts, since no verbal communication is required. It also noted that performers who gain social media popularity could earn above the base salary. Reports said all positions were filled shortly after the listing went viral, with more than 100 applicants responding. The zoo, which is government-backed and opened recently, said the role could help attract visitors and boost revenue through new attractions. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad.