Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 16, 2024 3:07 am GMT
Imagine being 80 years old and stepping onto a stage not just to compete but to change how people view aging. Choi Soon-hwa, an 80-year-old model and contestant in the Miss Universe Korea pageant, is doing just that. Born to rock traditional notions of beauty and age, she recently made headlines as the oldest woman to compete in this national beauty contest.
Breaking Age Barriers in Beauty Pageants
While many might assume that beauty and glamour are only for the young, Choi is here to challenge that belief. Her journey began as she became a finalist in the Miss Universe Korea pageant, giving hope to older people everywhere that it’s never too late to pursue dreams. On September 30, she will compete against 31 other finalists, many much younger than her. If she wins, she will represent South Korea at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City on November 16—a remarkable feat for someone her age.
Choi expressed her desire to inspire others with her participation. “I want to stun the world, like, ‘How is an 80-year-old lady so healthy?’” she shared with CNN. This statement captures her mission: to redefine how society views aging and health.
Paving the Way for Future Contestants
The Miss Universe Organization has made changes, recently lifting the upper age limit for contestants, which was previously set at 28. This change opened the door for Choi to enter the beauty pageant. She remarked, “Now that the age restriction has been lifted, I said, ‘I should give it a try.’”
Choi’s story is one of resilience. After retiring from her job, she faced financial hardships and worked as a hospital carer. It was a patient who suggested she pursue modeling, a dream she had as a child. “I thought it was nonsense,” Choi recalled, but that encouragement sparked a new chapter in her life.
A Thriving Modeling Career at 80
At the age of 72, Choi began her modeling career, showing that it’s never too late for new beginnings. In 2018, at 74, she made her debut at Seoul Fashion Week and has since graced the pages of major magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar and Elle. “Becoming a model was like opening a door to a new path for me,” she noted.
Choi’s newfound passion has not only revitalized her career but has also sparked pride and admiration in her family. “My son said he’s proud of me, and to enjoy it regardless of the outcome,” she stated. Her grandchildren, meanwhile, often tell her, “My granny is amazing.”
A Unique Contest Experience
This year’s Miss Universe Korea pageant has done away with the traditional swimsuit segment, focusing instead on talent. Choi will showcase her singing skills while other contestants will exhibit talents such as dancing or wearing hanbok, a traditional Korean outfit. She believes her modeling experience will give her an advantage, particularly when it comes to mastering the runway.
Reflecting on her journey, Choi said, “Looking beautiful on the outside is important, but… you need to be a positive thinker. So many people are negative these days.” This outlook resonates deeply with her mission to challenge negative stereotypes surrounding aging.
Ready for the International Stage
Choi’s aspiration to represent South Korea on an international stage has fueled her excitement for the upcoming contest. “I always dreamed of going on stage abroad… I’m ready,” she declared, noting that Japan is the only other country she has visited so far.
Her story encapsulates the power of perseverance and the importance of following one’s dreams—regardless of age. Choi Soon-hwa is not just partaking in a pageant; she is paving the path for future generations to believe that age should never be a barrier to ambition.
In a world often obsessed with youth, Choi’s participation reminds everyone that confidence, passion, and the desire to inspire can shine brightly at any stage of life. As she prepares for the competition, Choi hopes to inspire both her peers and the younger generation, showing that it’s never too late to pursue dreams and make a positive impact on the world.
Choi’s journey shows us that age doesn’t matter. As she gets ready for her next adventure, she shows that beauty, health, and energy can grow even in our later years. For everyone following her story, she is a shining example that life can start at any age.
