Tbf, everyone has a story, probably even those reporters. To be the way they are now, there would have been weaknesses that make them do that. Everyone has a weakness and somebody pulls their strings. It's a chaotic mess.
But being humans, they always have a choice, even when they think they don't. Obviously, these reporters took the "easier" choice. You either make buddies with the thugs or you carve out the most difficult path yourself, not giving up on your values even when the consequence is death. The latter choice takes immense courage and endurance, which is why few ever take it.
Cha Hyejin did take it though. Regardless of MC's advice, that was indeed the best path for her since her innate values consistently scream against her agency's CEO's deeds. It's the credo of Taoism.
I do agree though that she could have planned this better; this was definitely impulsive, but if she didn't do it, her psyche would have fallen in hellish turmoil. Although she almost gave up on life, she didn't seem to have regretted what she did.
So when you are faced with making a decision where you become paralyzed because you don't know whether to follow the easy path or to do as your inner values dictate, choose the one that aligns with your own values. While it may seem like a difficult path, the burden is much lighter because it's when you are most honest with yourself. At least you can be more sincere and more ready to accept the consequences.
You know what they say, "Honesty is the best policy." It's true--in more ways than one.
