In the ever-evolving world of K-pop, Big Ocean is making history as the first idol group to feature members with hearing loss. The trio, consisting of Park Hyun-jin, Lee Chan-yeon, and Kim Ji-seok, debuted in April 2024 and quickly gained attention not only for their music but also for challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a K-pop star.
Despite initial skepticism about whether a group with hearing difficulties could succeed in the competitive music industry, Big Ocean has proven their critics wrong. Since their debut on Korea’s Day of People with Disabilities, the group has released three singles and built a loyal fan base.
Each member brings a unique background to the group: Lee was an audiologist, Park is a YouTuber advocating for hearing disabilities, and Kim is a former Paralympic alpine skier. Their experiences have shaped their journey, and despite the challenges posed by their varying levels of hearing ability, they have developed innovative ways to overcome them. From using cochlear implants and hearing aids to relying on hand signals and AI technology during recordings, Big Ocean demonstrates remarkable resilience and adaptability.
Their debut song, “Glow,” was met with widespread acclaim, quickly attracting over 100,000 subscribers to their YouTube channel. The group even received recognition from Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the World Health Organization, who praised them for breaking barriers and challenging the stigma around disabilities.
While Big Ocean’s groundbreaking status as the first K-pop group with hearing loss has garnered attention, the members are eager to be recognized for their music and artistry, rather than solely for their disabilities. “We want people to see us as K-pop idols first, who just happen to have hearing loss,” Park says. The group’s mission is to create a barrier-free world where people with and without disabilities are viewed equally.
Their fans appreciate this inclusive message, with many expressing how the group’s success serves as an inspiration. One fan commented, “This is truly beyond just being a boy band: it will likely be a great source of strength for people [with hearing loss] all over the world.”
Big Ocean’s ultimate goal is to help erase the boundaries between disability and non-disability, striving for a future where everyone is accepted for who they are, regardless of their challenges. As they continue their journey, Big Ocean is not just making music—they are making history, paving the way for a more inclusive world.
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