If you haven’t drowned in the beauty of Big Ocean, then you’re missing out on one of the most talk-about groups of the year! Not only is their music splendid but also their group has a unique quality that no other K-Pop group has ever had nor seen.
The three member boy group of PARASTAR Entertainment consists of Hyunjin, Chanyeon and Jiseok – who are each partially deaf or hard of hearing. You read that correctly. One begins to wonder and question, “How can they be idols if they can’t hear music?” or “How can they know how to sing and dance to the beat?” While all of these questions may feel rough to ask and answer, the members of Big Ocean find strength in being one of the first K-Pop groups with a disability and being able to shed light on how they create music and work just as hard (if not harder) than any other idol in the K-Pop industry.
Take a moment to watch the group’s official greeting below.
The members are determined to create their own genre of music called “S-Pop” which combines Korean Sign Language (KSL), American Sign Language (ASL) and International Sign (IS) in their performances. They debuted in April of this year with a remake of “Hope” by H.O.T and now have three unique songs under their belt “Blow,” “Slow,” and “Glow.”
Now that you know the members and enjoyed their video, dive into the deep blue world of Big Ocean in our exclusive interview below! See how the members’ lives have changed, the hardships they’ve overcame, their love for K-Pop idols like NCT and BTS, and what they want their fans to remember most of all in their heart-warming personal messages. Check out the exclusive interview below.
Q1. Big Ocean is a very unique group in many ways. First, each member shares the same disability of hearing loss to a certain degree. How do you feel about your title as the ‘First deaf K-Pop boy group’ on social media?
Hyunjin: We feel honored to hold the title, but we also want to be recognized for our music and performances above all else. We want to inspire everyone, regardless of their abilities, to pursue their dreams.
Q2. What was the most challenging thing about your debut? Was there something different you had to experience compared to other idols?
Jiseok: The most challenging thing about our debut was overcoming our initial nerves and proving ourselves to the world.
Hyunjin: Coordinating our dance moves and music was particularly tough. We had to develop unique methods, like using visual cues and vibrations to stay in sync. This required a lot of practice and patience.
Chanyeon: Unlike many other idols, we had to navigate these unique difficulties to find effective ways to perform and connect with our audience. This experience taught us resilience and creativity, and ultimately making our debut even more special.
Q3. When making music or recording a song, is the process different for the group? How do you feel and understand music in your own way?
Jiseok: Our process involves a lot of adaptation. We rely heavily on vibrations and visual aids and technology to feel the beat and stay in tune.
Chanyeon: It’s a unique experience that helps us connect with the music on a deeper level than others perhaps.
Q4. Can you explain the name Big Ocean. What does it mean to you and what is the meaning you want to share with your fans?
Hyunjin: The name “Big Ocean” reflects our ambition to create a powerful and inclusive movement through our music and performances. It symbolizes our vast desire to spread positive energy around the world. Just like how the ocean connects continents, we want to connect with people everywhere and bring a wave of positivity and hope.
Chanyeon: Also, we got the initial idea for the name Big Ocean from the fact that unlike most people having to face difficulties speaking underwater, our members who use sign language can be comfortable communicating. So, we assumed that Ocean is truly where we can stay more comfortable and prove our potential.
Jiseok: We want Pados (the fandom) to feel that they are part of something bigger, something that transcends boundaries and unites people from all walks of life.
Q5. Tell us about your experience with your fans Pados. There are videos of you speaking and communicating in sign language with other hearing impaired fans. What do you talk about or share together?
Hyunjin: Interacting with Pados is always heartwarming and meaningful. We share our experiences, challenges, and dreams with them. It’s incredible to see how much they understand and support us.
Chanyeon: We talk about our daily lives, the ups and downs of being an idol, and the journey we’ve been on together. Pados inspire us just as much as we inspire them. They give us strength and motivation, and we learn a lot from their stories and perspectives. These interactions remind us why we started this journey and keep us grounded and connected to our purpose.
Q6. Can you tell us about your music? What sort of songs and concepts do the members want to try as a group and as an individual (solo).
Jiseok: Our music is all about spreading hope and positivity. As a group, we’d love to explore different genres and styles, from upbeat dance tracks to heartfelt ballads. Personally, since I don’t have a particularly cute image, I want to try a cold, chic, and mysterious concept.
Hyunjin: Our music aims to convey messages of hope and resilience. As a group, I want to present a unique melody to the world, especially through concepts that gradually build up to create a grand and mysterious atmosphere, like an orchestra or classical music style. Personally, I’d love to create music that embodies the world of sound and even compose songs that reflect the beautiful melodies I hear.
Chanyeon: Our music is focused on delivering positive energy and healing. As a group, I think it would be interesting to explore different styles that continue to uplift everyone. Personally, I want to try a sexy concept with a bit of decadence, something that challenges me and allows me to show a different side of myself.
Q7. Who are some idol groups or singers you each look up to and feel inspired by?
Chanyeon: I really admire NCT’s Mark and RIIZE’s Shotaro for their dance skills.
Hyunjin: I look up to TXT’s Yeonjun. His dedication and talent are truly inspiring.
Jiseok: BTS’s RM has been a huge inspiration for me.
Q8. What changes do you want to make in Korea and globally as hearing-impaired singers?
Hyunjin: We hope to break down barriers and stereotypes. We want to show that talent and hard work can shine through any challenge. By being visible in the mainstream music industry, we aim to motivate others who may feel limited by their circumstances to go and get their dreams.
Chanyeon: Our goal is to promote inclusivity and understanding, both in Korea and around the world. We believe that music has the power to connect people and change perceptions, and we want to use our platform to spread this message of hope and resilience.
Jiseok: Through our performances, we hope to create a more accepting and supportive environment for everyone.
Q9. Do you think people only consider your disability first? Is there another talent or side of Big Ocean the members want to share?
Hyunjin: It’s true that some people may first notice that, but we aim to be recognized for our talents and hard work. We are passionate about our craft. Personally, I enjoy playing the piano and want to showcase that in our future performances.
Chanyeon: We have so much more to offer, like our passion for dancing, singing, and connecting with people. I love drawing, which helps to keep me creative.
Jiseok: We want everyone to see our passion for music and our growth. We want them to see that, above all else, we are just like anyone else.
Q10. Before becoming an idol, what did you think you would be doing or what were you doing in your life?
Chanyeon: Before joining Big Ocean, I worked as an audiologist, where I focused on helping people with their hearing health.
Hyunjin: I was a YouTuber, creating content about living with hearing conditions.
Jiseok: I was deeply involved in Alpine skiing and spent a lot of time competing.
Q11. What is the biggest fear or worry you had about debuting as an idol?
Chanyeon: One of my concerns was about our ability to synchronize our performances, given our diverse backgrounds.
Jiseok: I was mostly afraid of whether we could convey our passion and energy to the audience in the way we intended.
Hyunjin: My biggest worry was whether people would accept us and our unique approach to music. The support we’ve received, though, has been overwhelming and truly reassuring.
Q12. How has life changed after debut? How do you feel about your disability now? Is it more like a strength rather than a weakness?
Big Ocean: Life has become more exciting and fulfilling after debuting. Our experiences have made us stronger and more resilient. We see our extraordinary experiences as power that shapes the way we are and this makes us more empowered and empathetic. Helping us connect deeply with our audience. We embrace our differences and use it to inspire others, showing that limitations equate to strengths.
Q13. If you could collaborate with another artist or group, who would you choose and why?
Big Ocean: If we could collaborate with another artist or group, it would be with anyone whose passion complements ours. Collaborating with different artists will pave the way for us to explore new musical styles and create something unique. It’s an exciting way to learn, grow, and bring fresh energy to the music we create while also having memorable experiences to share with Pados.
After sharing their love for Pados and expressing their individual talents and more, the charming boys of Big Ocean had one more parting gift for their cherished fans and new audiences as well. Jiseok, Chanyeon, and Hyunjin each shared the importance of Big Ocean in their lives and the power fans have given them in a final exclusive message to Pados.
Jiseok: Thank you so much for your unwavering support and love. Pados are our constant source of motivation to keep pushing forward and strive for excellence. Pados mean the world to us, and we are constantly inspired by your encouragement. Knowing that you believe in us makes every challenge we face worthwhile.
Chanyeon: We hope our music continues to bring Pados joy and positivity. Every song we create is a piece of our hearts, and it brings us immense happiness to know that it resonates with you. Your smiles and positive feedback fuel our creativity and drive. We aim to be a source of light and inspiration in your lives, just as you are in ours. Thank you for allowing our music and making it a part of your daily lives.
Hyunjin: Please stay with us on this incredible journey. We love you, Pados! Your support has been the foundation of our success, and we cherish every moment we share with you. This journey is not just ours but also yours, and we are grateful to have such amazing Pados by our side. Together, we will reach new heights and create unforgettable memories. Let’s continue to grow and achieve greater things together.
What do you think of the musical magic that is Big Ocean? Hyunjin, Chanyeon, and Jiseok have each worked hard to band together and prove their abilities as artists. Their journey has just begun and their growth will continue onward with the support of Pados! Thanks to Big Ocean’s music, more and more awareness is not only being highlighted in Korea but finding importance internationally as well.
Be sure to continue following Big Ocean on their incredible journey by subscribing to their YouTube and also following them on Instagram and Twitter. Find more of our exclusive interviews by following ZAPZEE on Instagram and Twitter as well.
Gracias Zapzee por apoyar a los chicos 💙.
De veras que está entrevista me hizo muy feliz ✨
You guys are amazing boys, I will always support you. You are so talented, beautiful, funny, smart and cute. I love you Big Ocean 💙
As Pado, im very proud of these powerful boys, since i met them before debut i thought that BIG OCEAN will be an Amazing group and i cant wait to see what new music and experiences they will show us. They also have tiktok account: big_ocean.official