Ms Choi Soon-hwa isn’t just a fairly face in a sea of hopeful girls vying for the likelihood to be topped Miss Universe Korea.
At 80 years outdated, the style mannequin can be the oldest lady participating in the magnificence contest.
Despite her silver hair, sagging pores and skin and crow’s toes, the ageless magnificence was named a finalist in the nationwide pageant earlier in September, giving her rivals – who’re younger sufficient to be her grandchildren – a run for his or her cash.
If she beats the different 31 finalists on Sept 30, she wins the likelihood to characterize South Korea at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City on Nov 16, making her the oldest contestant in the historical past of the worldwide pageant.
Eager to problem stereotypes about ageing, she advised CNN: “I want to stun the world, like, ‘How is an 80-year-old lady so healthy?’”
She hopes to encourage others by displaying that well being and vitality will be maintained nicely into outdated age, reported CNN on Sept 28.
The Miss Universe Organization lately lifted its higher age restrict for contestants, beforehand set at 28, permitting Ms Choi to enter.
“Now that the age restriction has been lifted, I said, ‘I should give it a try,’” she defined.
[[nid:702530]]While that is her first pageant, Ms Choi discovered a second profession as a mannequin in her 70s. After retiring from her job and going through monetary difficulties, she returned to work as a hospital carer when she was in her 50s.
It was one among her sufferers who inspired her to pursue modelling, rekindling an outdated dream. “I thought it was nonsense,” Ms Choi recalled, however the suggestion woke up her childhood ardour.
She started modelling at 72, finally making her debut at Seoul Fashion Week at 74 in 2018 and showing in main magazines like Harper’s Bazaar and Elle.
“Becoming a model was like opening a door to a new path for me,” she mentioned.
Ms Choi, who turns 81 in October and is a grandmother of three, mentioned her household has been supportive all through her journey.
“My son said he’s proud of me, and to enjoy it regardless of the outcome,” she mentioned. Her grandchildren additionally specific admiration, saying: “My granny is amazing!”
In the 2024 Miss Universe Korea pageant, which has eliminated the swimsuit section, Ms Choi will sing a music, with different contestants showcasing abilities resembling dancing or strolling in hanbok, a conventional Korean outfit.
Reflecting on the competitors, she mentioned: “Looking beautiful on the outside is important, but… you need to be a positive thinker. So many people are negative these days.”
Ms Choi believes her modelling expertise will give her an edge, particularly in mastering the runway stroll. She is happy about the prospect of representing South Korea overseas, a long-held dream.
“I always dreamed of going on stage abroad… I’m ready!” she mentioned, including that Japan is the solely different nation she has visited to this point.
This article was first printed in The Straits Times. Permission required for replica.
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