80-year-old woman aims to make history as oldest Miss Universe winner

80-year-old Choi Soon-hwa is set to shatter age barriers as she competes in the Miss Universe Korea pageant.

Choi's name was revealed as a finalist in early September 2024 and she will vie with 31 other women for the opportunity to represent South Korea at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this November.

“I want to stun the world, like, ‘How is an 80-year-old lady so healthy? How did she maintain that body? What’s your diet?’” she said while talking to CNN.

“When you get old, you gain weight… So, I want to show that we can live healthily even when we get old,” Cho added revealing her determination to challenge societal norms.

The Miss Universe pageant has undergone several changes, lifting its upper age limit starting in 2024.

Previously, only women between 18 and 28 years old were eligible to participate. Last year, the ban on pregnant women and mothers participating was also removed.

“Now that the age restriction has been lifted, I said, ‘I should give it a try,’” Choi noted.

“Whether I get through or not, I was determined to try and get this opportunity.”

If Choi succeeds, she will become the oldest woman to participate in the Miss Universe pageant. 

“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. 

“Also, you need to be a positive thinker. So many people are negative these days.”

Currently, 40-year-old Beatrice Njoya from Malta holds the distinction of being the oldest contestant after winning the right to represent her country.

Choi Soon-hwa's courageous endeavor has sparked excitement and inspiration, challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting healthy aging.

“Becoming a model was like opening a door to a new path for me, so I planned in my mind. I said, ‘I will be successful and work hard’… When my dream came true, I thanked God and kept working hard. It’s so fun and I love it.”