8chan, also known as 8kun, is an imageboard website that allows users to create and participate in discussions on a wide range of topics. It was launched in 2015 as an alternative to 4chan, promoting free speech and minimal moderation, which has led to its association with controversial content and extremist views. The platform gained notoriety for hosting discussions related to various conspiracy theories and hate speech. Following several mass shootings linked to content shared on the site, it faced significant backlash and was taken offline in 2019. It has since re-emerged under the name 8kun, continuing to attract a mix of users and controversy.