Miss Universe 1988 – Live from Taipei: Taiwan’s Record That Will (Probably) Never Be Broken – S5-E26
Long before 1988, Taiwan’s beauty pageants had been mired in rumors — winners accused of marrying into political dynasties, whispers of contests doubling as “wife buffets” for the elite, and government crackdowns on such events being too frivolous in austere times.
Even beauty standards themselves were contested as Western pageants favored tall frames and bold features, while traditional Chinese ideals prized delicacy, modesty, and the “melon-seed face.” By the time Miss Universe came to Taipei, the stage was set for both spectacle and controversy.
Yet for Taiwan’s government, the payoff was irresistible. Hosting Miss Universe meant sixteen minutes of global airtime to present the Republic of China’s culture, heritage, and landmarks from Taroko Gorge to Yehliu’s Queen’s Head. For a country fighting for recognition, this beauty show was also showtime for “Free China.”
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Cover left: Image shows the final of Miss Universe 1988, which was held on 24 May 1988. The event was sponsored by the now-defunct Formosa Airlines at the Lin Kou Stadium in. Chile's Cecilia Bolocco crowned Porntip Nakhirunkanok of Thailand as the new Miss Universe after a competition featuring 66 candidates. Right: The 1962 "Miss China" pageant. The winner, 連方瑀, would later marry Lien Chan, a (losing) two-time presidential candidate. Image via Threads.
Below: The "Mr. Taipei" 1987 tongue-in-cheek protest against beauty pageants was rather amusing. Images via Awakening Foundation IG account.
Long before 1988, Taiwan’s beauty pageants had been mired in rumors — winners accused of marrying into political dynasties, whispers of contests doubling as “wife buffets” for the elite, and government crackdowns on such events being too frivolous in austere times.
Even beauty standards themselves were contested as Western pageants favored tall frames and bold features, while traditional Chinese ideals prized delicacy, modesty, and the “melon-seed face.” By the time Miss Universe came to Taipei, the stage was set for both spectacle and controversy.
Yet for Taiwan’s government, the payoff was irresistible. Hosting Miss Universe meant sixteen minutes of global airtime to present the Republic of China’s culture, heritage, and landmarks from Taroko Gorge to Yehliu’s Queen’s Head. For a country fighting for recognition, this beauty show was also showtime for “Free China.”
Do us a favor: Rate, review, follow, sub, etc... it really helps!
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