More than 130 Miss World contestants to promote Vietnamese culture, identity
VOV.VN - More than 130 contestants from around the world will join Miss World 2026 in Vietnam to help promote the country’s culture and identity, Miss World Chairwoman Julia Morley said at a press conference launching the pageant in Ho Chi Minh City on May 14.
The 75th edition of Miss World, one of the world’s longest-running and most prestigious beauty pageants, is scheduled to take place in Vietnam from August to September 2026, with activities planned in Hai Phong City and Ho Chi Minh City.
Speaking at the event, Hoang Nhat Nam, representing the host organization for Miss World 2026, described the pageant as more than a beauty contest, calling it “a journey of culture, global connection and compassion” under the “Beauty With A Purpose” spirit.
Julia Morley said she has held a special affection for Vietnam for many years and is delighted that the country will host Miss World 2026.
She said more than 130 representatives from countries and territories worldwide will come to Vietnam to contribute positive values through the competition.
Meanwhile, reigning Miss World Opal Suchata Chuangsri greeted Vietnamese pageant fans and said she looks forward to the upcoming competition in Vietnam.
The Thai beauty queen said she hopes the competition will continue spreading Miss World’s positive message internationally and that the Vietnam edition will give people around the world a closer look at the country’s culture, people and beauty.
According to organizers, Ho Chi Minh City will host major activities including “Dance Of The World” and the grand finale, while Hai Phong will stage several side events. Vung Tau, now part of Ho Chi Minh City, will host cultural and tourism promotion activities during the competition.
At the launch event, organizers donated more than 1,000 books to the Ho Chi Minh Cultural Space run by the Ho Chi Minh City Women’s Union. Each contestant is expected to bring a children’s book representing her national culture to share with Vietnamese children.
Organizers also introduced the companion series Her Journey To Vietnam, featuring stories and profiles of contestants participating in Miss World 2026.
Vietnam earlier announced that Le Nguyen Bao Ngoc will represent the country at the competition. Bao Ngoc was first runner-up at Miss World Vietnam 2022 before winning Miss Intercontinental 2022.