Baek Se-hee, Author of I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, Dies at 35

South Korean author Baek Se-hee, best known for her groundbreaking memoir I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, has died at the age of 35.

Baek’s 2018 book — a deeply personal dialogue between herself and her psychiatrist — became a literary sensation for its raw, relatable exploration of depression, self-worth, and mental health. Its candidness struck a chord with readers across South Korea and beyond, helping to destigmatize mental illness in a society where such conversations were often suppressed.

Originally published in Korean, the memoir gained global recognition after its English translation in 2022, winning praise for its emotional honesty and accessibility. The title, which blends despair with the comfort of simple pleasures, became a symbol of resilience for millions struggling with mental health challenges.

Details surrounding the writer’s death remain unclear as fans and fellow authors have flooded social media with tributes celebrating her courage and vulnerability.

Baek Se-hee’s work continues to inspire a new generation of readers who see themselves reflected in her words — a reminder that, even in darkness, small joys can still matter.