Preparing for a debut in New York City, K-Pop ensemble Big Ocean will be the initial act to perform with hearing impairments
Big Ocean Brings Inclusive Music to the United States
South Korea's first hard-of-hearing K-pop boy group, Big Ocean, is set to commemorate their success in the United States with a special tour this summer. The group, consisting of members Lee Chan-yeon, PJ, and Kim Ji-seok, will perform in various locations across the country as part of their Ride the Wave tour.
Big Ocean made their debut on April 20, 2024, which is Korea’s Day of People with Disabilities. Since then, they have been pioneering a unique genre known as S-Pop (sign language pop), blending Korean Sign Language (KSL), American Sign Language (ASL), and International Sign in their performances.
The group's performances incorporate technological tools like smartwatches, metronomes, and sign language to create an emotional and connective experience. This innovative approach is transforming perceptions within the music industry about inclusivity and accessibility.
Big Ocean's advocacy for inclusivity is evident in how they represent people with disabilities in the entertainment world, breaking stereotypes and providing visibility for hard-of-hearing artists. The group has been recognized internationally, receiving accolades such as Billboard’s Rookies of the Month and inclusion in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia list.
Prior to debuting, each member lived lives fully integrated into society, demonstrating their diverse capabilities beyond music. They have roles such as audiologist, TV personality, YouTuber, and professional athlete.
Fans of Big Ocean, known as PADO, highlight how the group’s message of connection through sign language and empowerment has changed perceptions around disability and music, offering inspiration and emotional resonance beyond traditional auditory experiences.
During their performance in New York City on August 1 at Sound of Brasil (SOB's) in SoHo, Big Ocean will perform their latest hit single, "BUCKET HAT", and their second EP, "Underwater". The album theme emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and the power those living with disabilities still have.
Big Ocean is more than just a music group. They are a representation for the deaf community, but they also aim to empower all listeners. Their performances underscore that those with disabilities can pursue their passions in the music industry.
As part of their tour, Big Ocean will also visit St. Joseph’s School for the Deaf in New York City, where they will meet with children and showcase that even being deaf or hard of hearing does not mean children cannot grow up to be pop stars.
Big Ocean's goal is to showcase this message on a global scale. With their biggest fandom in the United States, as indicated by streaming statistics and fan event participation, they are well on their way to achieving this goal.
In their latest album, Big Ocean is portrayed as mermen, ready to entice listeners with their siren song. The theme for their album utilizes the concept of underwater communication, similar to the sign language used by scuba divers.
Big Ocean believes that everyone can redefine their lives and success in various ways, just as they are redefining music. They are dedicated to spreading awareness and resilience, challenging stereotypes about those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Get ready, Pados! Big Ocean is excited to finally meet their most passionate fans during their tour. They want the world to know that things will be alright, and you will beat it. Ride the Wave with Big Ocean this summer!
Celebrities like Big Ocean, with their unique blend of music and pop-culture, continue to disrupt traditional perceptions by incorporating sign language and promoting inclusivity within the entertainment world. The success story of Big Ocean, a hard-of-hearing K-pop group, resonates with fans around the world, particularly in the United States, where they are challenging stereotypes and inspiring others in the pop-culture scene.
