What's happened
Choi Soon-hwa, an 81-year-old model, participated in the Miss Universe Korea pageant, winning the 'best dresser' award. Although she did not win, her participation marks a significant shift in pageant inclusivity, as the age limit was lifted this year, allowing women of all ages to compete.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Sky News, Choi Soon-hwa, who began her modeling career in her 70s, expressed her desire to inspire others, stating, "Even at this age, I had the courage to grab onto an opportunity and take on a challenge." The Independent noted that Choi's participation was made possible by the Miss Universe Organization's decision to lift age restrictions, which had previously limited contestants to ages 18-28. This change reflects a broader movement towards inclusivity in beauty standards. The South China Morning Post emphasized Choi's resilience, highlighting her journey from a hospital care worker to a runway model, showcasing her determination to challenge societal norms.
How we got here
The Miss Universe Organization recently lifted its age restrictions, allowing women over 28 to participate. This change aims to modernize the competition and promote diversity, reflecting broader societal shifts regarding age and beauty standards.
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