In a world where social media often showcases only the highlights of life, one woman's raw and honest journey from the brink of death to culinary stardom has captured hearts worldwide. Baek Se-hee's story isn't just about food—it's about finding purpose in the darkest moments.
The Breaking Point
Before becoming an internet sensation, Baek Se-hee battled severe depression that brought her to what she believed was the end of her journey. "I had decided to end my life," she revealed in her poignant social media posts that would later go viral. The weight of her struggles had become unbearable, and she saw no way forward.
A Recipe for Survival
In what she thought would be her final act, Baek decided to cook one last meal—tteokbokki, the spicy Korean rice cakes that reminded her of happier times. But something miraculous happened during that cooking process. "As I stirred the pot, watching the rice cakes soften in the bubbling red sauce, I realized I wanted to live," she shared.
Going Viral and Saving Lives
When Baek posted her story alongside the tteokbokki recipe online, she never expected the overwhelming response. Her post amassed millions of views and thousands of comments from people across the globe who saw themselves in her struggle. Many credited her with giving them the courage to seek help or simply continue fighting their own battles.
The Ripple Effect
Baek's honesty created a safe space for conversations about mental health in communities where such topics are often stigmatized. Her tteokbokki recipe became more than just a dish—it transformed into a symbol of hope, resilience, and the possibility of finding light in unexpected places.
Building a Legacy
Today, Baek continues to share her journey and recipes, using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness. She's proof that sometimes salvation can come from the most ordinary moments—even from something as simple as cooking a familiar dish.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder that behind every viral post, there's a human being with struggles and triumphs, and that sometimes, the recipe for survival might just be waiting in your kitchen.
