South Korean gymnast Yang Hak-seon won the silver medal in the men's vault at the Asian Games on Thursday, failing to defend his title at the Asian competition.

   Yang scored 15.200 points, only marginally lower than the 15.216 points earned by the gold medalist, Shek Wai Hung of Hong Kong. China's Huang Xi took the bronze with 14.800 points.

   Yang stuck to techniques that were more familiar to him than his eponymous "Yang 2," which would have been one of the most difficult moves at the event.

   On his first try, the two-time world champion put on "Yeo 2" but stepped out of the line during his dismount, costing himself 0.10 points. "Lopez" came next, this time with impeccable precision and affording him the second spot on the podium.

   North Korea's Ri Se-gwang, who was thought to be Yang's biggest rival, finished fourth with 14.799 points, as he lost his balance upon landing his first attempt and fell face flat on the mat.

   The final took place at Incheon's Namdong Gymnasium, which was more packed than earlier this week, as locals flocked here to see their national hero do what he does best. Crowds were seen holding up flags bearing a blue-colored Korean Peninsula and chanting "We are one!"

   North Korean officials also temporarily occupied one side of the stadium to cheer on Ri but left immediately after his act.

   Previously at this Asiad, Yang led his team to a second-place finish at the men's artistic gymnastics event, but failed to make his mark in the individual floor exercise and the ring. (Yonhap)