80-Year-Old Model Makes History as Miss Universe Korea Finalist

Choi Soon-hwa Becomes Oldest Ever Contestant in Miss Universe KoreaCompetition

In an inspiring turn of events, 80-year-old Choi Soon-hwa has defied age barriers to qualify for the finals of the Miss Universe Korea competition. The South Korean fashion model, born in 1943, is now the oldest contestant in the pageant’s history.

Choi, who began her modeling career at 72, is set to compete against 31 younger finalists on September 30, with a chance to represent South Korea at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City this November. If she wins, Choi will become the oldest competitor in the global competition’s history.

In a recent interview with CNN, Choi, a mother of two and grandmother of three, shared her motivations for entering the pageant.

“I want to show the world that we can stay healthy and vibrant even as we age,” she said.

Choi, who turns 81 in October, added that she hopes to inspire others to see that wellness and body maintenance are possible in later life. “People often ask, ‘How is an 80-year-old woman so fit? What’s your secret?’” she joked.

She also touched on societal changes in beauty standards, highlighting the growing acceptance of cosmetic surgery worldwide. “Back in the day, people criticized those who had plastic surgery. Now, it’s common, not just in Korea but globally,” she said.

The Miss Universe Organization recently lifted its upper age limit of 28, allowing Choi to compete. Last year, they also removed restrictions barring mothers and married women from participating.

Choi has previously appeared in Seoul Fashion Week and magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar and Elle, but this is her first beauty pageant. Her participation signals a broader movement toward inclusivity and representation of older women in fashion and beauty.