Vietnam names transgender singer Huong Giang as Miss Universe 2025 delegate

The Miss Universe Vietnam organization announced the decision late Wednesday, describing it as a “special selection” ahead of the 74th edition of the contest, which will be held in Thailand in November.

Huong Giang, 32, gained national recognition after placing in the Top 4 of Vietnam Idol in 2012.

In 2018, she won Miss International Queen, an international beauty pageant for transgender women, also held in Thailand.

In addition to her work as a singer and actress, she has served as a producer and judge on various reality television shows in Vietnam.

She was also executive producer of Miss Universe Vietnam 2024.

Miss Universe Vietnam said the decision to appoint Huong Giang reflects a broader message about resilience, confidence, and representation.

The announcement drew strong reaction on social media, with many users expressing surprise and support.

The Miss Universe pageant began allowing transgender contestants in 2012.

Angela Ponce of Spain became the first openly transgender woman to compete in the global final in 2018.

In 2023, two transgender candidates — Rikkie Valerie Kollé of the Netherlands and Marina Machete of Portugal — reached the Top 20.

Vietnam’s highest placement in the Miss Universe competition came in 2018, when H’Hen Nie finished in the Top 5.

This year’s final is scheduled to take place on November 21 in Bangkok.