SEOUL – An 81-year-old South Korean fashion model fell short in her bid to become the oldest Miss Universe contestant after competing in the country’s national pageant against rivals old enough to be her grandchildren.
Dressed in a beaded white gown, the silver-haired Choi Soon-hwa strutted across the stage and performed in a singing contest at the Miss Universe Korea pageant held Monday at a hotel in South Korea’s capital, Seoul.
She missed out on the crown but did take home the “best dresser” award.
Han Ariel, a 22-year-old fashion school student, won the contest and will head to Mexico City for the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in November.
Choi, a former hospital care worker who began her modeling career in her 70s, was announced as a Miss Universe Korea finalist earlier this month along with 31 other contestants.
“Even at this age, I had the courage to grab onto an opportunity and take on a challenge,” Choi told The Associated Press hours before Monday’s pageant.
“I want people to look at me and realize that you can live healthier and find joy in life when you find things you want to do and challenge yourself to achieve that dream.”
It would have been impossible for Choi to compete in the pageant a year ago as Miss Universe had limited the participation to women between the ages of 18 and 28. The age limit, which had long drawn criticism, was lifted this year as part of efforts to make the competition more modern and diverse.
Organizers of the Korean pageant also removed the swimsuit competition and eligibility requirements related to education levels, height and foreign language abilities to open the contest to more women.
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This year’s Miss Universe Korea pageant was full of surprises as 81-year-old Choi Soon-hwa, a former hospital care worker turned model, took to the stage in a bid to become the oldest contestant in the pageant’s history. Despite stiff competition from contestants much younger than her, Choi impressed the audience with her grace and style, earning the title of “best dresser.”
While she may not have won the crown, Choi’s story is one of courage and resilience. Starting her modeling career in her 70s, she defied expectations and proved that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. In a pre-pageant interview, Choi expressed her desire to inspire others to live healthier and find joy in life by taking on new challenges.
The Miss Universe Korea pageant made headlines this year for removing age restrictions and other traditional eligibility requirements, making it a more inclusive competition. This allowed women like Choi to showcase their talent and beauty on a national stage, sending a powerful message of empowerment and diversity.
As the winner, Han Ariel, a 22-year-old fashion school student, will represent South Korea at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City. But it’s Choi’s spirit and determination that will continue to inspire generations to come, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.