Big Ocean, the latest sensation in the K-pop scene, is making waves with their remarkable blend of music and sign language. The band, which includes members Lee Chan-yeon, Park Hyun-jin, and Kim Ji-seok, has captured hearts worldwide with their unique performances that incorporate not just singing and rapping, but also expressive signing.
Despite being deaf or hard of hearing, the trio utilizes cutting-edge audio technologies, such as vibrating devices and flashing metronomes, to align their performances with music. “Korean Sign Language isn’t merely an addition for us; it's the essence of what we do,” stated Lee Chan-yeon, emphasizing their commitment to communication beyond sound.
Big Ocean debuted their first single “Glow” on Korea’s Day of People with Disabilities, marking their entrance into the industry with a powerful message. Their subsequent release, "Blow," further showcased their artistry and featured both English lyrics and American Sign Language, helping them to gain notoriety across various platforms.
Their achievements include being recognized as Billboard’s rookies of the month and securing a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia Entertainment & Sports list. Internationally, they’ve performed at high-profile events, including in Brazil and Switzerland, and are gearing up for their inaugural American tour this July.
The band has developed a vast online presence, gathering approximately 995,000 followers on Instagram and over 696,000 on TikTok. Fans, known as “Pados,” which translates to "waves," are increasingly learning sign language through tutorials offered by the band. Big Ocean is not just a music group; they are a movement, promoting inclusivity through sound and sign.
