In the vibrant world of K-Pop, Big Ocean stands out not just for their catchy tunes but for the unique incorporation of sign language into their performances. The trio – Lee Chan-yeon (27), Park Hyun-jin (25), and Kim Ji-seok (22) – have turned their hearing challenges into an empowering asset. Utilizing cutting-edge audio technology, they synchronize their choreography with flashing lights and vibrations, proving that creativity knows no barriers.
In a recent interview, Lee Chan-yeon articulated the emotional depth behind their performances, saying, “Just like divers rely on signs to communicate underwater, we use sign language to convey meaning where sound alone might fall short.” This sentiment is infused throughout their work, prominently showcased in their debut single “Glow,” released last year on Korea’s Day of People with Disabilities, and further explored in their follow-up track, “Blow,” which embraces English lyrics and American Sign Language, broadening their international appeal.
The reception has been nothing short of spectacular. Big Ocean was recognized as Billboard’s “Rookies of the Month,” and they landed a spot on Forbes' 30 Under 30 Asia Entertainment & Sports List. Their success continues to grow, with performances at major events, including an anime festival in Brazil and a United Nations technology conference in Switzerland, along with an upcoming tour across the United States this July.
With a staggering following of nearly a million on Instagram and over 696,000 on TikTok, fans, affectionately called “Pados” (waves in Korean), have shown unwavering support. Many of them are also taking the initiative to learn sign language through tutorials provided by the group, fostering a deeper connection between the band and their audience.
Big Ocean exemplifies how art can transcend barriers and create a more inclusive platform for expression in the global music scene, proving that sometimes, the most poignant messages don’t require sound to be heard.
