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Glamorous at 81: South Korea’s Choi Soon-Hwa Breaks Barriers at Miss Universe

How do you envision your 80s? Maybe tending to your garden, picking up a new hobby, traveling the world, or spending precious time with your grandchildren? For most people, these sound like ideal ways to spend their golden years. However, for Choi Soon-hwa, there was another item on her bucket list—a surprising, glamorous dream that most people wouldn’t think of at her age. She decided to launch her modeling career on the international stage by entering an international beauty contest. And this week, at the age of 81, she took to the stage alongside women a quarter of her age for Miss Universe South Korea, competing for the chance to represent her country in Mexico later this year. Her journey is nothing short of remarkable and record smashing. In sports betting, it would hit a massive odd for punters.

The story of Choi Soon-hwa is one of resilience, dreams, and, above all, the importance of self-discovery later in life. The former hospital worker, who spent years caring for others, has shown that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions, regardless of age. "After raising children and going through hardships, it’s just two people left, and that’s when you need to find what you want to do," Choi said in an interview shortly after stepping off the stage. "Once you find it, it becomes the energy that drives your life, leading to a positive outlook and healthier relationships with people, which in turn helps your well-being."

The Start of a New Dream

Choi's journey to the stage began much later in life. At the age of 72, she was encouraged to pursue modeling by one of her patients. It was a suggestion that resonated deeply with her. "For years, I had been struggling with financial difficulties that almost pushed my family to ruin," she recalls. The idea of modeling seemed far-fetched, but it sparked a new hope for her. She made the bold decision to follow this advice, and it marked the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in her life.

South Korea soon began to recognize her as a notable figure on the modeling scene. She walked the runway at Seoul Fashion Week, showcasing that age is merely a number when it comes to beauty and confidence. However, breaking into the international modeling industry was more challenging. "I had wished to step onto the international stage as a model, but there was no clear path or guidance for me," Choi admits. When Miss Universe announced earlier this year that it would remove the age limit of 28, it was an opportunity she couldn’t pass up. With her eyes set on the global stage, she became the oldest contestant ever to compete in the history of Miss Universe, setting a new record instead slugging it out at casino like some regular grannies.

Breaking Down Barriers in Beauty Competitions

The removal of the age restrictions is part of the Miss Universe organization’s recent push towards inclusivity and diversity. In recent years, the competition has opened its doors to a broader range of contestants, including married women, transgender women, and single mothers—a move aimed at modernizing the pageant and making it more representative of today's society. This was a significant development that welcomed women like Choi, who were previously barred because of their age.

While the change in rules has been welcomed by many, it certainly raised some eyebrows when Choi took the stage. Competing alongside women several decades younger, she caused quite the stir. Her youthful competitors, some of them just 20 years old, couldn’t hide their surprise when they learned that she was 81. "The participants were surprised to see me, and when they learned I was 80, they expressed admiration, saying, 'I want to age like you,'" Choi shared. It was not only a moment of admiration but also one that prompted them to rethink the traditional notions of aging.

Challenging Stereotypes and Beauty Norms

Choi’s presence in the competition was significant for more than just her age. She represented the power of redefining beauty standards and the importance of breaking down age-related stereotypes. The world has long had rigid beauty norms that favor youthfulness, but as Choi stood confidently on stage, she became a symbol of aging gracefully and beautifully—challenging an industry that has often excluded older women. Her participation sends a message that beauty is not confined to a particular age group. 

Although Choi did not win the Miss Universe South Korea crown—the honor instead went to Han Ariel, a 22-year-old contestant—she didn’t walk away empty-handed. She won the title of "Best Dressed", a fitting recognition for someone who embodies grace, elegance, and confidence. "Just being able to participate is an amazing and honorable experience," she says. Despite not winning the main crown, Choi sees her involvement as an achievement in itself, one that could potentially pave the way for future generations of older women to compete.

An Inspiration for All Generations

Beyond the stage, Choi has found a strong support system in her family, particularly in her grandsons, aged 23 and 24. "My grandchildren cheer me on, saying, 'Our grandma is so cool, pretty, beautiful, and the best!'" she says. To Choi, their encouragement is the ultimate validation. She is not just representing herself on the Miss Universe stage; she is representing all those who may have thought their dreams were unattainable because of their age.

Choi's journey has touched the lives of many people. Her story has made headlines not just in South Korea but around the world, gaining international attention for its inspiring message. She has become a role model, not just for older women, but for people of all ages who are afraid to follow their passions because they think the opportunity has passed. In a society that often views aging as a process of limitation, Choi is proof that growing older can also mean growing bolder.

Looking Ahead

As Choi reflects on her experience, she remains hopeful for the future. She envisions a time when older women are not a novelty at beauty pageants but a regular presence. The path may not always be easy, but with trailblazers like Choi leading the way, there is hope that the beauty industry—and society as a whole—will continue to evolve.

Choi Soon-hwa's journey is a reminder that life is full of unexpected opportunities, and it's never too late to chase after them. Whether you're 18 or 81, the key is to keep dreaming and to have the courage to step out of your comfort zone. For Choi, the Miss Universe stage was not just a platform to compete; it was a stage to inspire, to represent her country, and to show the world that age is just a number.

In a world that often values youth above all else, Choi has shown that beauty, confidence, and ambition do not fade with age. Her story is a testament to resilience, the importance of following one's passions, and the idea that no matter how old you are, it’s never too late to shine on any stage you choose.