Big Ocean: K-Pop’s Groundbreaking Deaf Group Breaks Barriers in Music Industry

Big Ocean: Pioneering Deaf Representation in K-Pop

On April 20, 2024, Big Ocean made a historic debut as the first K-pop group entirely composed of deaf and hard-of-hearing artists. Their emergence in the music industry signifies a remarkable step forward in accessibility and inclusion, challenging conventional norms within a highly competitive landscape.

Meet the Trailblazing Members

The trio includes Park Hyunjin (stage name PJ), Lee Chanyeon, and Kim Jiseok, each with unique hearing loss experiences. Hyunjin began losing his hearing at the age of three following a high fever; he currently uses a cochlear implant in his left ear and a hearing aid in his right. Chanyeon, who faced hearing loss at eleven, now has bilateral cochlear implants, while Jiseok, born with hearing difficulties, communicates using hearing aids and Korean Sign Language.

Diverse Backgrounds and Prior Careers

Before venturing into music, the members of Big Ocean engaged in various professional pursuits unrelated to entertainment. Hyunjin gained popularity as a YouTuber focusing on hearing disabilities, Chanyeon worked as an audiologist at Korea University Anam Hospital, and Jiseok showcased his athleticism as a professional alpine skier with the Seoul Para Ski Team.

A Supportive Artistic Environment

Big Ocean is signed under Parastar Entertainment, the very first South Korean agency created to support artists with disabilities. The group dedicated a year and a half to intensive training, honing their skills in singing, dancing, and acting, along with mastering three forms of sign language: Korean, American, and International.

Debut Single and Social Impact

Their inaugural single, “Glow, ”revitalizes the 1998 classic “Hope”by the acclaimed first-generation K-pop group H. O.T. This debut strategically coincides with South Korea’s Day of People with Disabilities, reinforcing their mission to break stereotypes and foster inclusivity.

Innovative Performance Techniques

To navigate the challenges of performing with hearing impairments, Big Ocean employs cutting-edge technology previously unseen in K-pop. The members don specialized vibrating smartwatches that provide rhythmic cues through gentle pulses on their wrists during performances. Additionally, they utilize LED visual metronomes that emit flash signals on screens to help maintain synchronization. The group also integrates artificial intelligence-driven voice conversion technology to enhance vocal training and improve audio quality for their recordings.

A Harmonious Blend of Artistry

Their performances are a captivating fusion of traditional K-pop choreography and sign language, establishing a distinctive artistic identity. When one member signs at the forefront, the others choreograph their movements to ensure that the signing remains the focal point while effectively conveying the intended message.

Global Recognition and Fan Engagement

Big Ocean has garnered considerable international acclaim, recently completing their inaugural European tour and being featured as Billboard’s K-Pop Rookie of the Month. Their fan community, affectionately named “Pado”(meaning “wave”in Korean), demonstrates unwavering support by learning sign language to strengthen their communication with the group. In a remarkable achievement, the trio secured a place on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2025 List in the Entertainment and Sports category.