An 80-year-old model from South Korea is making headlines as the oldest contestant in the Miss Universe Korea pageant, competing against women young enough to be her grandchildren.
Choi Soon-hwa is eager to demonstrate that grace, beauty, and determination have no age limits. “I want to stun the world,” she said in an interview with CNN ahead of the pageant’s grand finale. “People will ask, ‘How is an 80-year-old so healthy? How did she maintain that body? What’s her secret?’”
With her striking silver hair and unwavering confidence, Choi aims to show that life after 80 can be just as vibrant. “Looking beautiful on the outside is important, but you also need to be at peace in your mind and know how to respect others,” she explained.
Choi emphasized the importance of positivity, noting, “So many people are negative these days.”
Born nearly a decade before the first Miss Universe pageant in 1952, Choi would have made history had she won the crown at Miss Universe Korea, earning a chance to represent South Korea at the international competition in Mexico City this November as the oldest participant in the pageant’s 73-year history.
Kim Chae-won was crowned Miss Universe Korea on September 24.
This year marks a pivotal moment for the Miss Universe pageant, which has lifted age restrictions for the first time, allowing women of all ages to compete. This change follows last year’s decision to eliminate bans on pregnant, married, and divorced contestants, ushering in a new era of inclusivity.
Choi, who began modeling at 72 to settle debts, viewed the lifting of age restrictions as an opportunity. “When the rule changed, I thought, ‘Why not give it a shot? Whether I win or not, this is my chance to make a statement,’” she said. Her participation has inspired many to believe that it’s never too late to chase their dreams.