81-Year-Old Model Makes History As The Oldest Miss Universe Korea Contestant
Choi Soon Hwa, an 81-year-old Korean fashion model, has made history as the oldest contestant to ever compete in the Miss Universe Korea pageant.
The pageant, held on September 30, KST, at a hotel in Seoul, saw Choi strut across the stage in a white embellished gown, rocking her short, silver hair. As part of the talent round, she performed a singing contest.
Despite competing against significantly younger women, Choi managed to bag a spot among the finalists with 31 other contestants. Though she narrowly missed out on the winning title, she still took home the “Best Dresser” award.
Choi Soon Hwa was a former hospital care worker who began her modeling career in her 70s. Her goal with this pageant was to push herself and take on a challenging experience.
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.
— Choi Soon Hwa, AP News
Meanwhile, Han Ariel, a 22-year-old fashion school student, won the pageant and will be representing Korea at the 73rd Miss Universe Pageant in November.
