Lohe Zoo in Luoha City, Henan Province, posted a job advertisement on 13/6 for individuals to impersonate bears, interacting with visitors and roaming the grounds. The ad quickly gained traction online for its unusual nature. The position offers an annual salary of 100,000 Chinese yuan (15,000 USD). Applicants must be 18 years old and above, possess good health, and there are no gender restrictions. The work schedule involves 6-hour shifts, with 4 days off per month. The advertisement described the bear costume material as "soft", though it remains unclear if the outfits include internal ventilation.

The job advertisement from Lohe City Zoo. Photo: SCMP

The job description emphasizes freedom and creativity. "This is an extremely free position", the recruitment notice stated. "If you are tired, you can lie down and dream. If you feel energetic, you can dance, climb trees, or even catch fish. You can do anything that makes you comfortable". The role is suitable for both introverts and extroverts, as verbal communication with visitors is not required. Impersonators are encouraged to "act in the most unreasonable way" because, as the ad highlighted, "the more quirky, the more famous you become". However, specific rules apply: bear impersonators are not permitted to speak while interacting with visitors, except in emergencies, but they can growl. They are also expected to accept any food or drinks offered by guests.

The unusual job advertisement proved highly successful, with the zoo receiving over 100 applications and filling all positions within a few days, though the exact number of hires was not disclosed. A zoo employee suggested that popular bear impersonators could potentially earn more than the initial 100,000 yuan salary. The employee noted, "This offers a unique job opportunity for young people and helps our zoo explore new revenue streams". Lohe Zoo, which is funded by local authorities, commenced operations in early 5.

A black bear at a zoo in Zhongshan City. Photo: SCMP

The peculiar recruitment notice garnered significant attention from Chinese internet users, sparking widespread discussion. Many commented on the practical challenges of the role. "This is not an easy job", one user remarked. "Summer in Henan can be extremely hot; imagine wearing that costume!" Another user humorously questioned the no-talking rule: "No talking during work hours? I doubt anyone can follow that rule".

Hong Hanh (Source: SCMP)