Though the 32-year-old, Beijing Winter Olympics gold medalist was not competing, his presence was still felt. Han served as a guardian of the national flag during the opening ceremony, watched the Chinese team competing at short-track speed skating events, and participated in a range of activities promoting sportsmanship.

Figure skater Kim Chae-yeon speaks during an interview with Yonhap News Agency in Seoul on Feb. 25, 2025. Kim captured the women's singles title at the Four Continents Figure Skating Championships in Seoul on Feb.