Dreams of Choi Soon-hwa, an 81-year-old South Korean fashion model, scattered when she couldn’t win the Miss Universe Korea pageant held in Seoul on Monday.
Vying for the chance to become the oldest contestant in the international competition, Choi graced the stage in a stunning beaded white gown and showcased her talents in the singing portion of the event.
Despite being decades older than her fellow contestants, Choi’s efforts were recognized with the “Best Dresser” award.
The top honor went to 22-year-old fashion school student Han Ariel, who will represent South Korea at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City this November.
Choi, a former hospital care worker who embarked on her modeling career in her 70s, was among the 32 finalists announced earlier this month. “Even at this age, I had the courage to grab onto an opportunity and take on a challenge,” Choi told The Associated Press before the pageant.
She hopes to inspire others to pursue a healthier lifestyle and find joy in life by setting goals and challenging themselves to achieve their dreams.
Earlier this month, she was unveiled as a finalist in the annual Miss Universe Korea competition. On Monday, Choi will go head-to-head with 31 other contestants for the tiara — and a chance to represent South Korea at the Miss Universe final in Mexico this November, according to the CNN.
The Miss Universe organization recently lifted the age limit for contestants, which had previously restricted participation to women between 18 and 28 years old. This change, along with the removal of other eligibility requirements by the Korean pageant organizers, aimed to make the competition more inclusive and diverse. The swimsuit competition was also eliminated, further modernizing the event.