Elon Musk recently responded to the passing of Kabosu, the Japanese Shiba Inu whose likeness became the face of the viral "doge meme." The news was shared by Kabosu's owner, Atsuko Sato, in an emotional blog post announcing the dog's peaceful departure.
The Legacy of Kabosu and Dogecoin
Kabosu’s image not only popularized the "doge" meme but also became synonymous with Dogecoin, the lighthearted cryptocurrency initially created as satire. Dogecoin holds the distinction of being the first "meme coin" and paved the way for other canine-themed cryptocurrencies.
Elon Musk’s Tribute
When a user on X (formerly Twitter) mourned Kabosu’s death, Musk replied with a simple yet heartfelt message:
“Rest in peace.”
Fans flooded the platform with requests for X to temporarily change its logo to honor Kabosu, echoing a previous tribute where the platform’s icon was swapped for the Doge meme.
Kabosu’s Final Moments and Fan Reactions
A Peaceful Farewell
Atsuko Sato described Kabosu’s final moments as serene, noting that the dog “quietly passed away as if asleep” while being caressed. Kabosu had battled cholangiohepatitis and chronic lymphoma leukaemia since 2022. A farewell event is scheduled in Nara City, Japan, allowing fans to pay their respects.
Internet Tributes
The online community shared an outpouring of grief and appreciation:
- “Kabosu left a pawprint on our hearts… Let’s honor her by spreading kindness.”
- “RIP Kabosu—always in our hearts.”
- Fan art memorializing Kabosu circulated widely, depicting her alongside other iconic meme characters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why was Kabosu famous?
Kabosu’s photo became the face of the "doge" meme and later Dogecoin, blending internet culture with cryptocurrency history.
How did Elon Musk react?
Musk responded to a fan’s post on X with “Rest in peace,” reigniting calls for X to feature the Doge logo again.
What was Kabosu’s cause of death?
Kabosu had been diagnosed with liver disease and leukemia in 2022. She passed away peacefully in her owner’s care.
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