Full Breakdown
Baek Se-hee: A Legacy of Mental Health Advocacy
10/17/2025, 8:25:47 PM
Core Event: Baek Se-hee's Passing and Its Impact
Baek Se-hee, the South Korean author renowned for her memoir *I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki*, has died at the age of 35. Her death has drawn significant attention not only due to her literary contributions but also because of her decision to donate her organs, which saved five lives, as confirmed by the Korean Organ Donation Agency. The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, with reports indicating she was declared brain-dead on October 16, 2025.
Background & Context: The Memoir's Significance
Published in 2018, *I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki* is a compilation of Baek's conversations with her psychiatrist, addressing her struggles with dysthymia, a persistent form of depression. The book has sold over a million copies worldwide and has been translated into 25 languages, resonating with readers globally for its candid exploration of mental health issues. Its title references tteokbokki, a beloved Korean dish, symbolizing the small joys that persist amidst emotional pain.
Key Figures & Groups: Baek Se-hee and Her Supporters
Baek Se-hee was born in 1990 and studied creative writing before working in publishing. She received psychiatric treatment for nearly a decade, which informed her writing. Anton Hur, who translated her works into English, remarked on her impact, stating, “Her readers will know she touched yet millions of lives more with her writing.” Baek's sister emphasized her desire to inspire hope through her work, reflecting her gentle nature and commitment to sharing her experiences.
Criticism & Opposition: The Stigma of Mental Health
Despite Baek's contributions to mental health discourse, the stigma surrounding mental health issues persists in South Korea and beyond. Her memoir played a crucial role in normalizing conversations about mental health, yet many individuals still struggle to openly discuss their emotional pain. Baek's work serves as a reminder of the courage it takes to acknowledge one's struggles.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement, Baek's sister expressed that her sibling aimed to “share her heart with others through her work, and to inspire hope.” Anton Hur highlighted the profound impact of Baek's writing, noting that her organ donations saved five lives while her literary legacy continues to touch millions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The human heart, even when it wants to die, quite often wants at the same time to eat some tteokbokki, too.” — Baek Se-hee
- “'Knowing her gentle nature, incapable of harboring hatred, I hope she can now rest peacefully.” — Baek Se-hee's sister
- “her readers will know she touched yet millions of lives more with her writing” — Anton Hur, Translator
What's Next: Continuing the Conversation
Baek Se-hee's legacy will likely continue to influence discussions around mental health, encouraging individuals to share their stories and seek help. Her works, including the sequel *I Want to Die but I Still Want to Eat Tteokbokki*, published in Korean in 2019 and in English in 2024, will remain vital resources for those navigating similar struggles.
