Miss Kim Ngoc Shines After 8 Years Away from the Spotlight
Kim Ngoc, crowned Miss Global Vietnam 2018 at just 19, has made a stunning return to the stage after eight

As the Miss World 2026 competition unfolds in Vietnam from August 11 to September 5, Lê Nguyễn Bảo Ngọc has been maintaining a remarkable performance. The 2001-born beauty from Cần Thơ, who previously won the title of First Runner-Up at Miss World Vietnam 2022 and was crowned Miss Intercontinental the same year, is leveraging her experience to stand out among the contestants.
In the early days of the competition, Bảo Ngọc has displayed notable confidence, actively engaging with other contestants and participating in various activities. Her fluent English has allowed her to communicate effectively, enhancing her interactions with peers and event organizers. During the opening ceremony on August 12 in Quảng Ninh, she made a striking appearance in a traditional red áo dài, holding a conical hat, and at 1.86 meters tall, she left a significant impression with her poise and elegance.
On the green carpet, Bảo Ngọc opted for a stylish purple pleated dress, complemented by a light makeup look. She has shown versatility in her wardrobe choices, adapting her outfits to suit the nature of each event, ranging from feminine and formal to casual and dynamic.
Currently, Bảo Ngọc's performance is rated as stable and safe, with no significant missteps. While she has yet to create a truly explosive moment, she consistently presents a radiant image and remains proactive in group activities.
On August 14, the beauty pageant site Sash Factor from the Philippines ranked Bảo Ngọc first in their predictions for Miss World 2026, ahead of contestants from Brazil, Venezuela, Bolivia, and the Czech Republic. This is a notable advancement, as she was previously ranked third before the opening ceremony.
As of August 16, the competition has yet to announce results for key preliminary events, meaning Bảo Ngọc does not have an official ranking in categories such as Sports Beauty, Top Model, Head-to-Head Challenge, Talent, Media, or Beauty with a Purpose. Her comprehensive profile, which includes strong physical attributes, language skills, and a solid educational background, positions her well for a potential top placement.
Bảo Ngọc's project, Beauty with a Purpose, focuses on climate action and youth leadership. She founded Gen Zero, which mobilized over 6,000 volunteers and contributed to the collection of 35 tons of waste. This community engagement is crucial, as it aligns with the values emphasized by the Miss World organization.
While it is still early to predict her potential victory, the support from being the host country adds both encouragement and pressure. Competitors from Brazil, Chile, and the Czech Republic, among others with strong pageant traditions, remain formidable challengers.