Yang made his international debut in 2010, competing for the Republic of Korea. His dedication and skill quickly earned him recognition. By 2012, he became the first Korean athlete to win a gold medal in artistic gymnastics at the Olympic Games, securing victory in vault at the London Olympics.

Challenges and Injuries

Despite his successes, Yang's career has been marred by injuries. He competed at the 2014 Asian Games with a right hamstring injury. This injury forced him to withdraw from the 2015 World University Games and miss the World Championships that year. In 2017, he aggravated the same injury during the warm-up for the vault final at the World Championships in Montreal.

Yang also faced setbacks due to a fractured right hand in 2018 and a right Achilles tendon injury in March 2016, which required surgery and caused him to miss the Rio Olympics. Additionally, he suffered from back and right ankle injuries in 2013.

Nicknames and Philosophy

Yang is affectionately known as "The God of Vault" and "Beef Jerky," a reference to his persistent hamstring injuries. His sporting philosophy is encapsulated in his motto: "My biggest rival is myself."

Awards and Honours

Yang's achievements have been recognised with numerous awards. He was named Athlete of the Year at the Korean Athletics Awards in 2012 and 2013. In 2011, he was honoured as Gymnast of the Year by the Korea Gymnastics Association. Additionally, he served as a final torchbearer for the opening ceremony of the 2015 World University Games alongside baseball player Park Chan-Ho.

Named Element

Yang has a vault element named after him, known as "Yang 1." He first performed this element at the 2011 World Championships in Tokyo. The move involves a handspring forward and salto forward straight with triple twist.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Yang aims to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. His determination and resilience continue to drive him forward despite past challenges.

Yang Hak-Seon's journey in gymnastics is marked by both triumphs and trials. His perseverance through injuries and his commitment to excellence have solidified his place as a key figure in artistic gymnastics.