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Tteokbokki: Baek Se-hee’s Heartbreaking Yet Inspiring Legacy: Korean Author Dies at 35
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Tteokbokki: Baek Se-hee’s Heartbreaking Yet Inspiring Legacy: Korean Author Dies at 35
A Sad Farewell to a Powerful Voice
Renowned South Korean author Baek Se-hee, best known for her bestselling memoir “I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki”, has died at the age of 35.
Her passing was announced by the Korea Organ Donation Agency, which shared that Baek’s final act of generosity saved five lives through the donation of her heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys.
While the cause of death has not been revealed, her impact on readers worldwide continues to resonate deeply.
A Voice That Spoke the Unspoken:Tteokbokki
Baek Se-hee captured the hearts of millions with her raw and relatable honesty about living with depression and anxiety. Her 2018 memoir documented her conversations with a psychiatrist over twelve weeks, interwoven with intimate reflections that helped readers confront their own struggles.
Her book became an international bestseller, reaching audiences far beyond South Korea and sparking global conversations about mental health and self-acceptance.
Her publisher, Bloomsbury Publishing, shared an emotional tribute:
“The generosity Baek Se-hee showed in sharing her own story with such vulnerability and candour cannot be understated. She sought connection and wanted her words to be of help and consolation.”
Tributes Pour in from Fans and Colleagues:Tteokbokki
Anton Hur, the translator of her memoir, expressed his grief on social media, saying Baek “touched millions of lives with her writing. My thoughts are with her family.”
Her authenticity and courage inspired countless readers who saw themselves in her words.
Beyond Her First Memoir: Continuing the Conversation
Following the success of her debut, Baek published a sequel in 2019, “I Want to Die but I Still Want to Eat Tteokbokki”, which delved deeper into her ongoing journey toward contentment and healing.
Bloomsbury described it as a testament that “striving for happiness is an ongoing journey,” a message that continues to comfort readers today.
Understanding Baek’s Battle: Dysthymia and Mental Health
Baek Se-hee publicly shared her struggle with dysthymia, also known as persistent depressive disorder, a long-term form of depression.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), dysthymia affects about 1.5% of U.S. adults annually and can last for years, often going unnoticed.
By speaking openly about her condition, Baek helped destigmatize mental health discussions in both South Korea and abroad.
An Enduring Message of Hope
Though her death leaves a painful void, Baek Se-hee’s words continue to offer solace to those who struggle in silence. Her legacy is one of honesty, empathy, and courage — proving that even in darkness, there is room for hope and connection.
Her final act of organ donation is a reflection of the compassion that defined her life and writing — a reminder that her story, though tragically brief, continues to save lives.
If You Need Help:Tteokbokki
If you or someone you know is in crisis, you are not alone.
Call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the U.S., or text HOME to 741741.
You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for global mental health support.
✅ Positive Sentiment: Her bravery, honesty, and generosity in life and death continue to inspire.
❌ Negative Sentiment: The literary world mourns the devastating loss of a voice that helped millions understand mental health.