The contest took place on Monday, September 30 in Seoul, where Han Ariel, a 22-year-old fashion student, was the winner. However, Choi Soon-hwa's dream of participating came true.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
Although years ago age would have been an impediment for Choi, today the new rules allowed her to be one of the most beautiful finalists, standing out for her elegant catwalk on stage.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
It is worth mentioning that the Korean pageant organizers also eliminated the swimsuit competition, as well as eligibility requirements related to education levels, height and foreign language skills to open the contest to more women.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
“Even at this age, I had the courage to seize an opportunity and take on a challenge,” Choi told The Associated Press hours before the tournament.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
Choi, who walked the runway in a white dress and performed at a singing contest, took home the title of “best dressed.”
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
“I am not worried about being eliminated. I will look for another opportunity to enter,” he said recently in an interview.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
“I want people to look at me and realize that you can live healthier and find joy in life when you find things you want to do and challenge yourself to achieve that dream.”
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
The queen of fashion was once a former hospital worker. She began her career as a model at the age of 70, and has continued to set trends to this day.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
Her taste for fashion is something that is reflected in each of her outfits, marking elegance and style in each garment.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
With her participation, Soon-hwa seeks to send a positive message and invite women of her age to participate in these beauty pageants, because despite not winning, she assured that next year she will also be on the list of candidates.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa
With a little more experience on these catwalks, Choi Soon-hwa will once again try to be Miss Universe Korea 2025.
Photo: Instagram @soonhwa