80-Year-Old Woman Emerges as Finalist in South Korea Miss Universe Pageant
Seoul, South Korea — In a stunning turn of events that has the world buzzing, 80-year-old Choi Soon-hwa has qualified as a finalist in the Miss Universe Korea competition.
That’s right, folks—an octogenarian is strutting her stuff on stage, reminding everyone that beauty knows no age limit.
Turning 81 next month, Choi has turned heads not only for her age but also for her refreshing perspective on life and beauty.
So, what’s the story here? Until recently, beauty pageants had age restrictions tighter than a pair of Spanx on a hot summer day.
Contestants had to be between 18 and 28, leaving many fabulous women like Choi out in the cold. But, thanks to some much-needed changes to the contest’s selection rules—prompted by the growing call for inclusivity—those restrictions were scrapped.
Now, the runway is open to all women, regardless of their age, marital status, or whether they’ve ever used a “before” filter on Instagram.
Choi, who has spent years working as a senior fashion model, decided it was time to seize the moment. “Now that the age restriction has been lifted, I said, ‘I should give it a try,’” she shared with a smile. “Whether I get through or not, I was determined to try and get this opportunity.”
Her determination to represent not just herself but all women of age has struck a chord with many. “Looking beautiful on the outside is important, but I think you need to be at ease in your mind as well and know how to respect others,” she added, radiating wisdom that only comes with experience.
But how did an 80-year-old grandmother of three transition from nursing to the runway? It all began at age 72, when a patient at the hospital where she worked suggested she try her hand at modeling.
Initially, Choi thought it was “nonsense,” but it also sparked an old dream of hers. “I used to dream of that before, I should try it,” she recounted, reflecting on the moment that changed her life.
With some modeling classes under her belt and practicing her walk during breaks at work, she made her debut at Seoul Fashion Week by age 74.
“Becoming a model was like opening a door to a new path for me,” she said. “When my dream came true, I thanked God and kept working hard. It’s so fun and I love it.”
Fast forward to September 30th, and Choi found herself on the grand stage of the Miss Universe Korea pageant, competing alongside women young enough to be her granddaughters.
Although she didn’t clinch the title or the chance to represent South Korea in the global Miss Universe contest in Mexico, she certainly didn’t go home empty-handed.
Her presence and poise provided a powerful reminder that confidence, beauty, and spirit transcend age.
In a world where societal norms often box women into specific roles as they age, Choi’s participation has resonated with many, evoking the same kind of admiration that Alejandra Marisa Rodríguez inspired earlier this year in Argentina.
So, what’s next for this trailblazing grandma? Choi hopes her journey will inspire others to pursue their passions, no matter their age.
“If I can encourage just one person to embrace their own beauty and go after their dreams, then I’ve succeeded,” she said.
As the applause echoed in the auditorium, one thing was clear: Choi Soon-hwa isn’t just a contestant; she’s a movement, proving that life doesn’t stop at a certain age—it only gets better. Here’s to many more years of runway walks and breaking barriers!
