Kabosu, the shiba inu dog known for her quizzical expression that became the face of the popular “doge” internet meme, has passed away, as confirmed by her owner, Atsuko Sato. The iconic image of Kabosu with a side-eyed look went viral in 2013, becoming one of the most recognized images of the social web era. Atsuko Sato, a kindergarten teacher from Chiba Prefecture, Japan, shared the news of Kabosu’s passing on her blog, expressing her sadness and gratitude for the time they spent together.
The image of Kabosu became a staple in internet culture, being shared in countless social posts and even serving as the face of a cryptocurrency. In 2021, a non-fungible token (NFT) of the image was sold for $4 million, highlighting the enduring popularity of the meme. Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency inspired by the doge meme, paid tribute to Kabosu, praising her for embodying happiness and limitless love. The meme, often accompanied by colorful captions in comic sans font, captured the hearts of internet users worldwide with its faux amazement and broken English phrases.
The doge meme featuring Kabosu was often adapted to comment on various world events, pop culture news, and even to criticize political rivals. In 2014, the public transport authority in Stockholm, Sweden, launched an advertising campaign using the doge meme, incorporating phrases like “such cheap” and “many summer.” The meme’s widespread appeal and versatility led to its integration into various forms of media and communication, cementing Kabosu’s place in internet history.
The city of Sakura, Japan, where Kabosu lived, paid tribute to its famous canine mascot by featuring the doge image on manhole covers and unveiling a bronze statue of Kabosu earlier this year. Fans from around the world donated to fund the creation of the statue, showcasing the global impact of the beloved shiba inu. Kabosu’s legacy lives on through these tributes and the countless memes that continue to circulate online, serving as a reminder of the joy and humor she brought to people’s lives.
Atsuko Sato expressed her love and appreciation for Kabosu, describing her as the happiest dog in the world and herself as the happiest owner. The bond between Sato and Kabosu touched the hearts of many, with fans expressing their condolences and sharing memories of the beloved shiba inu. As internet users mourn the loss of a beloved meme icon, Kabosu’s legacy lives on as a symbol of joy, humor, and the enduring power of the bond between humans and their furry companions. Through her iconic image, Kabosu continues to bring smiles to faces around the world, forever cherished as the original doge.
