The crypto community bids farewell to Kabosu, the Shiba Inu and beloved Doge meme icon.
Kabosu, the face of the Dogecoin cryptocurrency, passed away peacefully on May 24 at the age of 18.
Her owner, Atsuko Sato, shared the sad news on her blog, thanking fans for their support over the years and announcing a farewell gathering in Narita City.
Kabosu first captured the internet’s heart in 2010 when Sato posted a photo of her on her blog.
The image, showcasing Kabosu’s sceptical yet curious expression, quickly went viral and birthed the iconic “Doge” meme.
This meme, characterized by phrases in broken English and Comic Sans font, became a significant part of internet culture.
In 2013, Kabosu’s image became the symbol of Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency initially created as a joke.
Despite its humorous origins, Dogecoin grew into a widely recognized digital currency, supporting various charitable causes, including funding for clean water projects and the Jamaican bobsled team.
The crypto community and fans worldwide have been sharing tributes and memories of Kabosu, celebrating her legacy and impact on meme culture and cryptocurrency.
Co-creator of Dogecoin, Billy Markus, expressed his condolences and reflected on Kabosu’s enduring influence.
Kabosu’s legacy extends beyond the digital realm, influencing even political campaigns.
The reelection campaign for U.S. President Joe Biden, for instance, announced hiring a “master of memes” to manage digital media relations, reflecting the significant role memes play in contemporary communication.
In December 2022, Kabosu’s health had become a concern, prompting an outpouring of support from the crypto community. Offers for financial assistance and well-wishes flooded in, showcasing the strong bond between Kabosu and her global fans.
