North Korean gymnast breaks neck while performing stunt at circus festival

What was supposed to be a momentous event ended up being unforgettable for all the wrong reasons.

A North Korean gymnast broke his neck while executing a stunt during a circus festival known as Idol-2017 in Moscow, Russia.

He had been attempting to break a world record by performing six somersaults in the air, The Sun reported on Sept 18.

The unindentified acrobat reportedly suffered the injury as he carried out his second attempt.

The incident was captured on video and it shows the gymnast not being able to complete his final rotation after catapulting into the air with help from a teammate.

Officials and teammates rushed to his side once he landed and carried him away. By then, it was clear he had lost consciousness.

The crowd could be heard clapping for the man's brave attempt as the teeterboard was removed.

According to The Mirror, he was taken to the hospital immediately after.

But it is unclear if he will be paralysed from this accident. His current condition is also not known.

ssandrea@sph.com.sg