Kabosu, the beloved Shiba Inu who became an internet sensation as the face of the “Doge” meme and the Dogecoin cryptocurrency, passed away peacefully on May 24 at the age of 18. Her owner, Atsuko Sato, shared the news on her official blog, expressing deep gratitude for the widespread love and support Kabosu received over the years.
Farewell and Legacy
Sato announced that a farewell party for Kabosu, affectionately known as “Kabo-chan,” would be held at Flower Kaori in Kotsu no Mori, Narita City, on May 26. The crypto community and Kabosu’s fans worldwide have been paying their respects, sharing tributes and cherished memories of the iconic dog.
Kabosu’s legacy extends beyond her image; she has become a symbol of community spirit and the enduring influence of meme culture. Her skeptical and curious expression, first shared by Sato in 2010, quickly went viral and became the “Doge” meme, accompanied by phrases in broken English and Comic Sans font. This image is a cornerstone of internet culture.
Dogecoin and Charitable Contributions
In 2013, Dogecoin was created, using Kabosu’s image as its official logo. Although initially intended as a joke, Dogecoin grew into a popular cryptocurrency, known for supporting various charitable initiatives, including clean water projects and funding for the Jamaican bobsled team.
Community Support and Health Struggles
In December 2022, Kabosu faced serious health issues, prompting an outpouring of support from the crypto community. Dogecoin co-creator Billy Markus, known as Shibetoshi Nakamoto, urged his followers to send their support. One supporter even offered to cover any expenses needed to ensure Kabosu received the best treatment.
Impact on Meme Culture and Beyond
Kabosu’s influence has reached beyond the crypto world, even impacting political campaigns. For instance, U.S. President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign hired a “master of memes” to manage relationships with digital media companies, podcasts, and popular meme pages, highlighting the importance of memes in modern communication and culture.
Kabosu’s passing marks the end of an era for many in the crypto and internet communities. Her legacy will continue to inspire and remind future generations of the power of community and the unique role of memes in shaping our digital world.