The literary community has been shaken by the devastating news of South Korean author Baek Se-hee's passing at just 35 years old. Her groundbreaking memoir, I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, became an unexpected international sensation, offering raw insight into the daily struggles of living with depression.
A Voice That Resonated Globally
Baek's unique approach to documenting her therapy sessions struck a powerful chord with readers worldwide. The book's title itself captured the complex duality of mental health struggles - the coexistence of profound despair with simple, everyday desires.
Published in South Korea in 2018 and later translated into multiple languages, the work quickly transcended cultural boundaries. Its honest portrayal of therapy sessions and the author's internal dialogues provided rare, unfiltered access to the reality of managing mental health conditions.
Breaking Stigmas Through Personal Storytelling
What made Baek's work particularly impactful was its ability to normalise conversations about mental health in societies where such discussions often remain taboo. Her writing style combined:
- Brutal honesty about depressive episodes
- Moments of dark humour and wit
- Relatable descriptions of everyday challenges
- Insightful reflections on therapy progress
The book's structure, featuring actual transcripts from her therapy sessions alongside personal reflections, created an intimate reading experience that many described as feeling like reading their own thoughts.
Legacy of a Mental Health Pioneer
While details surrounding her death remain private, Baek's passing has sparked renewed conversations about mental health support systems and the pressures faced by writers exploring deeply personal topics. Her work continues to serve as a beacon for those navigating similar struggles.
The international literary community has flooded social media with tributes, highlighting how Baek's courage in sharing her journey helped countless readers feel less alone in their own mental health battles.
As readers and mental health advocates mourn this profound loss, Baek Se-hee's words continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of vulnerability and the importance of continuing conversations about mental wellness that she so bravely started.
