I wanted to see how similar their essay was. If he copied word for word, then it's plagiarism. But if it's only the thought and gist, I don't think that counts as plagiarism. And it's a formal award giving body, I'm sure they'll know when a work is plagiarized or not, especially when the prize is that grand.
I think Sunwoo felt way too guilty than he actually was. He has always set himself to a high standard, that's why when he actually fell short, it felt way too heavy than it originally was. Like a good student feeling too guilty when he cuts class, but in reality it's totally normal and somewhat not that serious offense.
Girl, it's not your place to decide for him, or for anyone else's, what they need and do not need. Old enough to do PS but not old enough to know how to respect people? (︶︿︶)=凸