In a touching and unexpected gesture, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has taken to social media to pay his respects to Kabosu, the iconic Shiba Inu dog that inspired the Dogecoin meme. Buterin's simple yet poignant message, "Rest in Peace Kabochan," was a heartfelt tribute to the beloved canine, who passed away peacefully in her sleep.

Kabosu's owner, Atsuko Sato, announced the news of her passing, describing the serene scene of Kabosu's final moments, with the morning sun shining through the window and birds singing in the background. The news has sparked a wave of tributes across social media, with the Dogecoin community and the wider cryptocurrency sphere coming together to mourn the loss of a cherished symbol of the internet's playful spirit.

Born on November 2, 2005, Kabosu was rescued from a puppy mill by Sato, a kindergarten teacher in Japan. Her quizzical expression in the now-famous Doge meme, which spread like wildfire in 2013, brought joy and laughter to millions worldwide. The meme's popularity inspired Dogecoin, which started as a joke but is now the eighth-most valuable cryptocurrency, with a market capitalization of $22.88 billion.

The Dogecoin community, affectionately known as "Shibes," has been deeply affected by Kabosu's passing. The official Dogecoin account on social media posted a tribute, saying, "Today Kabosu, our community's shared friend and inspiration, peacefully passed in the arms of her person. The impact this one dog has made across the world is immeasurable. She was a being who knew only happiness and limitless love."

The Dogecoin Foundation also paid its respects, posting, "Rest in peace, dear Kabosu, beloved Doge. You were very much wow." Buterin's tribute, coming from a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency space, highlights the significance of Kabosu's impact on the community.

As the news of Kabosu's passing continues to spread, the cryptocurrency community remains in mourning, remembering the joy and laughter she brought to millions. Her legacy lives on through the Dogecoin community and the wider internet, a testament to the power of a simple meme to bring people together and inspire a global phenomenon.