Well, this opens the door to many make-up hugs and make-up kisses.
I have to keep in mind the vast, vast differences between western and eastern sensibilities.
This 17 year old is off balance by the veiled threats delivered from a teacher that works side-by-side with the woman he loves.
It was a spot decision based on protecting her. I can totally "get" it although I think it may not have been a top tier choice. Given the choice of "breaking up" with her, or the vast unknown of what it means to have her life "ruined," he took one of two choices.
In my opinion, his biggest mistake is not involving her in the decision. Pushed this far they may have opted for something like changing regions, etc. So that's the part that hurts... so, his solo decision is what hurts.