An 81-year-old South Korean fashion model, Choi Soon-hwa, competed in the Miss Universe Korea pageant in Seoul against rivals young enough to be her grandchildren. Dressed in a beaded white gown, Choi strutted across the stage and impressed the audience with her performance in the singing contest. Although she didn’t win the crown, she did receive the “best dresser” award.
The winner of the contest was 22-year-old Han Ariel, a fashion school student, who will represent South Korea in the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City in November.
Choi, a former hospital care worker who started modeling in her 70s, expressed her courage and determination to take on challenges even at her age. She was one of the finalists selected for the Miss Universe Korea pageant among 31 other contestants.
Choi’s participation in the pageant was made possible by the lifting of the age restriction, allowing women of all ages to compete. The Korean pageant also made changes by eliminating the swimsuit competition and other eligibility requirements to make the contest more inclusive and diverse.
Choi shared her hope that her journey would inspire others to pursue their dreams and find joy in life by challenging themselves to achieve their goals.
