Baek Se-hee, Author of ‘I Want to Die,’ Passes Away at 35
Baek Se-hee, the acclaimed author of the memoir “I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki,” has tragically passed away at the age of 35. Her death has drawn attention not only because of her literary contribution but also due to her impactful decision to donate her organs, saving five lives.
Legacy of Baek Se-hee
According to the Korea Organ Donation Agency, Baek donated her heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. The specifics surrounding her death remain undisclosed. Her younger sister expressed that Baek’s wish was to share her experiences and inspire hope through her writing.
Impactful Memoir
- “I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki” was released in 2018.
- This memoir combines essays and insights, addressing her fight against depression.
- It has sold approximately 600,000 copies in South Korea alone.
- The book has been translated into over 25 languages and sold over 1 million copies globally.
- In the UK, it achieved sales of 100,000 copies within the first six months post-release.
Baek’s work vividly reflects the stigma surrounding mental health in Korea. Her words struck a chord internationally, emphasizing a shared understanding of emotional pain across cultures. She remarked on this connection in an interview, noting that the experience of a “wounded heart” resonates universally.
Recent Works and Engagements
In addition to her bestselling memoir, Baek collaborated on other significant projects. Her works include:
- “No One Will Ever Love You as Much as I Do” (2021)
- “I Want to Write, I Don’t Want to Write” (2022)
In June of this year, she also published her debut short fiction titled “A Will from Barcelona.” Baek was active in engaging with her audience through lectures and talk concerts, sharing her journey and the importance of mental health awareness.
Baek Se-hee’s legacy remains impactful, reminding us of the profound connections forged through shared human experiences and the importance of mental health advocacy.
