China is noncompetitive in ladies (and ice dance). Inviting bigger name skaters won't be a detriment to their skaters (as nice as Hongyi is, she's not in any danger of making the podium). With that said, they might even have the incentive to invite bigger name skaters - generate more interest in the event (more attendees, more revenue & more buzz, more opportunity to grow the sport in China). Visas and/or flight logistics may be factors, but small.
Will be funny to see Young and Yelim (if she's invited) together again!
Will be funny to see Young and Yelim (if she's invited) together again!