During the semifinals on the evening of 27/5, Huong Giang showcased an evening gown with a 3D structural design, adorned with crystal and gemstone flower petals. She performed a catwalk that integrated a butterfly effect, achieved by drones flying across the stage.

Across many forums, audiences from Thailand and the Philippines praised her performance. Judge Osmel Sousa expressed his impression of the act, comparing the moment the butterflies flew on stage to a cinematic scene. "She is one of the most memorable contestants this season", he told the media.

Huong Giang entered the top 10 for best evening gown performance in the semifinals.

Content creator Call Me Duy, who attended the competition to support Huong Giang, noted that when the butterfly models first appeared, international fans initially mistook them for LED screen effects before realizing they were props prepared by the contestant.

Huong Giang hired a technical team from Vietnam to assist in Thailand. Nguyen Vinh Phu, a member of the team, stated that the three-person crew was present at the venue on the dress rehearsal day, with only a brief window for flight tests due to program security. "We were under pressure because everything had to be calculated precisely. The most important aspect was ensuring the drones synchronized with the music and Huong Giang's movements to create a cohesive and beautiful display", he explained.

The team recounted that during practice, the butterflies flew as intended, but on the broadcast day, strong winds from the stage fans caused concern that the models might fall. "Fortunately, everything went smoothly. We breathed a sigh of relief once Giang stepped backstage", Vinh Phu added.

Since joining the competition, Huong Giang has implemented strategies tailored to each activity and setting. At the Welcome All The Stars to Bangkok event, she performed a catwalk in her chosen outfit. While posing at the center stage, she performed a lighter flick in front of the camera. This action lasted only a few seconds but enhanced the impact of her appearance.

The beauty queen revealed she practiced with young actor Mai Bao Vinh, who had previous experience. According to Huong Giang, the biggest challenge was timing the camera and executing the move decisively. "Backstage, I was worried the lighter might malfunction. Luckily, everything went well", Huong Giang said.

On 26/5, Huong Giang participated in the closed-door interview round. Unlike many contestants who opted for elegant attire, she wore a striking, translucent taffeta fishtail gown. When a judge inquired about her dress, she responded, "I want to showcase the evolving fashion of Vietnam. Given the nature of this competition, I need a reason for people to remember me".

The organizers encourage contestants to bring their own ideas to add flair to the stage, but these must comply with regulations and ensure safety. For the swimsuit competition on the evening of 28/5, Huong Giang prepared a frame and strings attached to her back, intending to pull them during her performance to make the train fly. However, the team did not approve this, citing the need for uniformity among contestants. "I was quite disappointed because I practiced this move thoroughly", she stated.

Beyond her stage ideas, Huong Giang also organized various backstage activities, including giving hundreds of gifts and interacting with fellow contestants. Amidst the strong lineup of All Stars contestants, she aimed to create distinction and foster connections.

Over the past 15 days, Huong Giang has maintained stable performance despite health challenges. She suffers from varicose veins, leading to frequent swelling and bruising in her legs due to extensive travel. On the evening of 28/5, she found it difficult to stand steadily in high heels. Before going on stage, staff assisted her with ice packs to alleviate the pain.

Huong Giang changed outfits quickly during the recognition for leading the World's Choice Award, on the evening of 27/5.

On the afternoon of 29/5, the organizers announced the semifinal rankings, with Huong Giang placed 17th. Judge scores accounted for 70%, combined with 30% audience votes, to determine the top 18 advancing to the finals. With her advantage of previously leading the World's Choice Award category, Huong Giang has a chance to progress further. She is currently focusing on maintaining her energy for the finals on the evening of 30/5.

The beauty queen, full name Nguyen Huong Giang, is 34 years old and hails from Hanoi. She first gained public attention by reaching the top four of Vietnam Idol 2012. In 2018, she was crowned Miss International Queen in Thailand. In late 2025, she competed in the 74th Miss Universe but did not place in the top.

The All Stars version is part of the Miss Grand International system, announced by its President, Nawat, in late 2025. This competition is distinct from the original, allowing contestants to register freely without going through domestic MGI copyright holders. Former participants in international beauty pageants have the opportunity to compete. The contest is open to transgender individuals, married women, and mothers.

The competition takes place from 16 to 30/5 in Thailand, featuring various activities. The judging panel for this season includes Osmel Sousa, a renowned beauty expert from Venezuela; Isabella Menin, Miss Grand International 2022; Natalie Glebova, Miss Universe 2005; composer Omar Harfouch; and other notable figures.

Tan Cao

*Photos, video: Character's team provided*