On November 13, Vietnamese representative Nguyen Cao Ky Duyen stepped into the crucial private interview round at Miss Universe 2024.

Ahead of the interview, Ky Duyen made a striking appearance in a traditional Vietnamese ao dai and conical hat, proudly showcasing Vietnamese culture and exuding confidence.

Her outfit, designed by Le Thanh Hoa, was inspired by the traditional Vietnamese yếm (a bodice-like garment) and was paired with sparkling jewelry, creating an elegant, refined look.

On this important day, Ky Duyen also took a moment to post a story congratulating Huynh Thi Thanh Thuy, who recently won Miss International 2024. The two beauty queens had previously crossed paths at Tan Son Nhat Airport as they headed to their respective international competitions.

Ky Duyen congratulates Thanh Thuy on winning Miss International:

This year, Miss Universe introduced a new format for the private interview round. Each contestant meets with individual judges, with a total of 127 contestants divided into groups of 11.

Each contestant has three minutes with each judge, then moves to the next, until they have completed meetings with all 13 judges. This round now lasts 35-39 minutes per contestant, a significant extension from past years, allowing judges to gain a deeper understanding of each participant.
Beauty queens are ready for private interviews.

Some contestants shared their experiences after the interviews. Saint Lucia’s Skye Faucher remarked, “I carried my nation’s spirit and hope in my heart as I walked in, speaking genuinely with each judge.”

Meanwhile, Shyanne McIntosh, Miss Universe Gibraltar 2024, donned a red dress symbolizing strength and confidence: “I completed my interview and felt honored to share my story, passions, and values.”

Miss Universe Croatia 2024 Zrinka Ćorić expressed excitement, saying, “I had a wonderful opportunity to reveal my true self and story. Now, I’m ready for the semifinals.”

Ruby Pouchet, Miss Universe Bonaire 2024, spoke emotionally about her pride in representing her homeland: “Though I come from a small place, I’m here to prove that, regardless of origin, anyone can make a difference.”

The Miss Universe 2024 judges were also presented to the media in Mexico as they prepare for the final night. This year’s panel features 13 judges, the largest in Miss Universe history, ensuring a comprehensive perspective in selecting the winner.
The Miss Universe 2024 judging panel.

The semifinal on November 15 will be hosted by Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel and Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios.

The grand finale on November 17 will be hosted by Mario Lopez, Olivia Culpo, Zuri Hall, and Catriona Gray—all seasoned and charismatic figures in international television.

The lineup of artists for the finale includes Robin Thicke, Emilio Estefan, Taboo, Vikina, Nico Ruiz, Richaelio, and The Mariachi.

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray has also arrived in Mexico, where she met with fans.

Minh Phi  

Photos and videos: Insta