"I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki" – A Raw and Honest Look at Mental Health

"There are days when I don’t want to die. But there are days when I do. And that’s enough for me to keep going."

I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki is a deeply personal and introspective book that blends memoir and self-help, exploring the complexities of depression, self-worth, and emotional struggles. Written by Baek Sehee, a young woman navigating anxiety, self-doubt, and societal expectations, the book is structured around her real-life therapy sessions, offering raw and honest reflections on mental health.

Despite her persistent feelings of sadness and self-judgment, Baek also experiences everyday joys—like her love for tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food—which raises an important question: How can someone feel so low yet still find comfort in simple pleasures? This paradox becomes a central theme, challenging conventional ideas about depression and happiness.

The book resonates with anyone who has ever felt trapped by their emotions while maintaining a functioning, outwardly "normal" life. By transcribing her psychiatrist’s advice and her own responses, Baek provides a relatable and non-preachy guide for those struggling with similar feelings, making it a comforting companion in moments of darkness.

It’s a bestseller in Korea, praised for its blunt honesty, humor, and vulnerability, and has found a global audience thanks to its refreshingly candid take on mental health.