Baek Se-hee, South Korean author of ‘I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki’, dies aged 35

South Korean author Baek Se-hee, best known for her acclaimed book I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, has died at the age of 35. No cause of death has been revealed at this time.

According to Chosun Biz, Baek was declared brain-dead and passed away at the National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital. Officials confirmed that her organs were donated, helping save the lives of five individuals.

A message from Baek’s younger sibling, shared through the Korea Organ Donation Agency, paid tribute to the late writer. “Older sister, who shared hearts with people through writing. Knowing your kind heart that loved much and could not hate anyone, now rest comfortably in the sky. I love you so much,” the note read.

The agency confirmed that Baek’s organ donations were successfully completed on Thursday. Her act of generosity has been recognised by readers and fellow authors across South Korea as a final reflection of the compassion that shaped her work.

Baek rose to prominence with her 2018 memoir I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki, which explored her experience with depression and therapy.

The book resonated widely with readers for its honesty and relatability, becoming a cultural touchstone for discussions about mental health in South Korea and internationally.