Baek Se-hee: The Voice Behind I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki
Published by: INFORMATIONMEDIA
Category: Author Spotlight | Mental Health | Korean Literature
Date: October 17, 2025
🌟 Who Was Baek Se-hee?
Baek Se-hee (1990–2025) was a South Korean author celebrated for her raw and relatable writing on mental health. Born in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, she studied creative writing at university before working for five years at a publishing house. Her personal struggles with dysthymia (persistent mild depression) became the heart of her acclaimed memoir, I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki The Washington Post.
📚 Breakthrough: I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki
In 2018, Baek self-published her memoir, which began as blog posts documenting her therapy sessions. The book's candid tone and humorous yet poignant insights into mental health struck a chord, leading to over a million copies sold worldwide and translations into more than 25 languages The Washington Post.
The memoir was followed by a sequel, I Want to Die But I Still Want to Eat Tteokbokki, published in 2019. Both works have been lauded for their authenticity and have contributed significantly to destigmatizing mental health discussions in South Korea and beyond The Guardian.
💔 Passing and Legacy
Baek Se-hee passed away at the age of 35. In a final act of generosity, she donated her organs, saving five lives The Washington Post. Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes, with many reflecting on her impact in normalizing conversations about mental health.
🧠 Understanding Dysthymia
Dysthymia, or persistent depressive disorder, is characterized by chronic low mood lasting for at least two years. Symptoms include low energy, poor self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness. Baek's openness about her condition has helped many recognize and seek help for this often-overlooked form of depression The Times of India.
0 Comments