While many consider 4chan just a western answer to the japanese 2chan = Futaba Chanell = two leaves chanell (and there indeed there are 4 leaves on the logo), one can’t overlook the fact that traditional japanese humor feeds from the multiple meanings tied to similar sounds or simbols. In japanese 4 yon can sometimes pronounced shi same as death, therefore the number 4 is considered unlucky while chan is in general used for babies, young children, and teenage girls. Chan may also be used towards cute animals, lovers, and close friends. 4chan can be therefore interpreted as unfortunate kids. And by the way isn’t it funny that futa and buta (pig) have similar pronunciations in japanese ?
4chan and AT&T had a short, heated gone burst dispute a couple of days ago.