I have the right to destroy myself: A bizarre fictional look at selfdestruction

I have read books about serial killers, mass murderers, sexual sadists, and freaks. I have never run across a book about someone who assists others commit suicide. Kim Young-Ha’s ‘I have the right to destroy myself’ was a twisted new diversion in my reading. Hooray for South Korean fiction!

Every person has at least one moment in their lifetime when the think to themselves that they would be better off dead. It is not a matter of depression, hopelessness, nor rejection; instead, suicide is the logical option for many who have found themselves at the end of their journey. They are complete.

• I have the right to destroy myself (Young-Ha Kim) 
• 119 pages 
• Harcourt 
• ISBN-10: 0156030802 
• ISBN-13: 978-0156030809 

The main character has no name. He is not a perversion, he provides a service. He helps handpicked individuals come to terms with their desire to die. He sees what is best for them and assists them to be successful. He does not force their hand, connive, or trick. If they are not ready, he asks them to come back later. He never participates in their death, only administrates.

Equal parts introspection and story telling, Young-Ha creates a wonderful story.


For those concerned, this is not a gory book. It focuses more on the intricacies of decision making and the differences of perception when it comes to beauty and priorities. There is a fair amount of people “bumping uglies” in the first half as well.


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Sourcing: This book was suggested to me by a friend and supplied by the same friend. Sometimes I wonder if loaning books to friends is similar to telling them they should have showered. This book loan might have been a subtle suggestion, or offer. Was he being a dick?