At over 80 years old, Choi Soon-hwa has made history by advancing to the final rounds of the 2024 Miss Universe Korea competition.
Changed Age Restrictions
Choi’s participation comes after the pageant’s rules were recently changed, allowing contestants beyond the previous age limit of 18 to 28.
Until last year, the competition was also limited to single women without children. These rule updates opened the door for Choi, a grandmother who has proven that age is no barrier to pursuing bold dreams, according to 20Minutes.
Choi Soon-hwa told CNN that she saw this opportunity as a way to "surprise the world" and challenge traditional beauty standards.
Her journey into the world of modeling began not long ago — at the age of 72.
Started Modeling After Financial Scheme
According to France Info, Choi had previously worked as a caregiver and raised her children on her own.
After a financial scam wiped out her savings, Choi was forced to delay retirement and find another source of income.
She chose to enter the modeling world, a decision that allowed her to thrive despite the late start. In a 2019 interview, she likened this new chapter of her life to "scoring a last-minute goal in extra time."
Though she impressed many with her elegance and determination, Choi did not win the Miss Universe Korea 2024 title.
On September 30, 2024, the crown went to 22-year-old Han Arial, who will represent South Korea at the Miss Universe competition on November 16, 2024. Nevertheless, Choi’s groundbreaking participation has sparked important conversations about beauty, aging, and the possibilities of later-life reinvention.
