Born nearly a decade before the inaugural Miss Universe pageant in 1952, 81-year-old Choi Soon-hwa has made headlines as the oldest participant to ever compete in the event.

Earlier this month, Choi was announced as a finalist in the Miss Universe Korea competition, where she will compete against 31 other contestants on Monday for the crown and the opportunity to represent South Korea at the Miss Universe finals in Mexico this November.

“I aim to inspire the world by showing that an 81-year-old woman can remain healthy and vibrant,” Choi stated in an interview before the pageant. “As people age, they often gain weight and face various health challenges. I want to demonstrate that it is possible to live a healthy life even in older age.”

For years, the Miss Universe Organization had strict age limits, restricting participation to women between the ages of 18 and 28. However, in response to growing demands for modernization, the organization has lifted the upper age limit starting from 2024. Additionally, last year saw changes in eligibility criteria, including the removal of bans on pregnant women, mothers, and women who are or have been married.

Choi, a former hospital care worker who began her modeling career in her 70s, has become a symbol of determination and the pursuit of passion at any age. Despite not winning the title, she took home the ‘best dresser’ award and has garnered international attention for her participation.