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Miss Universe Organization launches probe on Vietnam pageant controversy
The Miss Universe Organization has launched an investigation into the current controversy at Vietnam’s pageant.
According to Vietnamese newspaper VnExpress International, newly crowned queen Bui Quynh Hoa is being accused of knowing the Q&A question in advance.
She was asked to define beauty and confidence, and instantly gave an answer. The newspaper said, "A ‘confident beauty,’ according to her, is also someone that can acknowledge others’ successes and get over her own failures in order to improve and become a better version of herself."
Hoa’s answer is also similar to an article published on the Vietnam Women’s Union website as well as a top Google search.
At a press conference, the model and beauty queen denied that she knew the question in advance, but that she had done research and thoroughly prepared for the contest.
Hoa also denied that she was already chosen as the winner even before the coronation night.
The Miss Universe Organization assured that it is working with the Vietnam franchise to investigate the controversy.
“It's extremely important to us that all pageants are judged fairly, and that we have your trust when it comes to every single delegate,” they said in a Facebook statement. “We're working closely with our franchise partner in the country to learn more about what happened and ensure that every part of our program is, and has been, carried out with integrity.”
“We appreciate your patience while we take a closer look at this matter," they added.
The Miss Universe Organization is owned by Anne Jakrajutatip, founder and CEO of JKN Global Group Public Limited. She attended the Miss Universe Philippines coronation night last May, where Michelle Dee was crowned the winner.
Michelle is set to represent the country on the global stage in El Salvador on November 18.
—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News
