INTERVIEW ARTIST INTERVIEW: BIG OCEAN

[Polaris_Tae]

INTERVIEW: Big Ocean

Hello Hallyuplussers! Today, we're back with another exciting artist interview! Today, we'll be interviewing the 3-member hard-of-hearing Kpop group, Big Ocean. The group made their debut earlier this year with 'Glow', a remake of the h.o.t hit single, 'Hope'. The group works with a team of professionals to utilize a vibration-beat metronome within their specially programmed smartwatches, while also incorporating sign language into the group's choreography. In addition to these technological advancements, the group employs the use of flashing lights for rhythmic counting, which has allowed the members of Big Ocean to synchronize their choreography and performances despite their hearing challenges. Their dedication to innovation has earned them praise from industry seniors — this can be seen through our prior interview with LIONESSES on Hallyu+ — as well as recognition from the President of South Korea. The three-member group, consisting of Hyunjin, Chanyeon & Jiseok, are all hard of hearing. Hyunjin has a cochlear implant, while Jiseok & Chanyeon wear hearing aids. The group has stated that they wish to encourage other people living with disabilities to follow their dreams. With all this said, let's jump into the interview with Big Ocean!



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Q: You made your debut on Disabled Persons Day in South Korea. What would you like to tell other people in a similar position to yourselves (living with a disability) who are also looking to join the Korean entertainment industry?

Hyunjin: Our debut on Disabled Persons Day holds deep meaning for us, as it symbolizes that dreams truly have no limits. To those facing challenges like ours, I want to say: don’t let barriers define your journey or limit your aspirations. Your passion and determination are far stronger than any obstacle you may encounter. Embrace your unique story, because it is what makes you extraordinary. Pursue your dreams with courage, and know that your voice deserves to be heard.

Q: I know that you just debuted in April. What has been the most memorable moment of your career to you? (Question asked by our members SoyeonJelly, UMJI MOODS & chococo)

Hyunjin: Winning Hallyu Newsis Kpop and being nominated as Billboard’s "K-Pop Rookie of the Month" is a moment I’ll never forget. It was a testament to the hard work and passion we’ve poured into our journey so far. I also vividly remember our live viewing of the Paralympics through JJAANN (a global star-fan community platform). Watching our Pados come together to celebrate athletes' resilience reminded me why our message of inclusivity is so important.

Chanyeon: Releasing our first mini album “Follow” and "FLOW" was a highlight for me. The process of creating this track with Mark Batson was unforgettable, especially how he tailored the beats to match our hearing levels. Filming the music video at the National Institute of Deaf Youth in Paris added even more depth. The historic significance of the location, combined with the participation of so many passionate individuals, made it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It felt like our music truly came to life in a way that celebrated inclusivity and diversity.

Jiseok: Performing in New York and the Cayman Islands as part of our "Follow" promotions felt surreal. Meeting our U.S. Pados in New York and experiencing the energy they brought to our events was absolutely unforgettable. In the Cayman Islands, exploring the ocean and seeing incredible marine life, like stingrays and starfish, was such a special experience. It truly connected us to the message behind our group name, Big Ocean. These moments not only allowed us to perform in amazing places but also reminded us of the importance of our mission beyond music.

Q: Are there any plans to release a physical album one day? (Question asked by our member RussianRoulette)

Hyunjin: Yes, we recently released our first mini album “Follow”, which is a huge milestone for us. It includes four tracks—Glow, Blow, Slow, and Flow. Each song carries a unique message. "Glow" represents hope, "Blow" reflects overcoming challenges, "Slow" encourages taking life at your own pace, and "Flow" captures the ease of going with life’s rhythm. Together, these songs reflect a journey we hope our listeners will connect with: to glow with hope, blow through challenges, and slow down to trust the process. We're thrilled to finally share this with our PADOs and hope it resonates deeply with everyone.

Q: Have you (or your team) found out whether there are certain instruments that are more effective with the vibration experience technology within the members' smartwatches? (Question asked by our member SirTim0thy)

Chanyeon: Our smartwatches respond best to powerful beats and bass-heavy instruments, which help us feel the rhythm clearly during performances. Recently, we’ve also started using a vibrating bag that synchronizes in real-time with music on-site. This innovative addition enhances our ability to stay in sync and perform with confidence despite our hearing challenges.

Q: If they could travel overseas on a tour to meet fans, which country would they want to visit? Are there any European countries your members would like to visit?

Jiseok: We’d love to visit as many countries as possible to meet our PADOs worldwide. Traveling and connecting with fans face-to-face is something we all look forward to, and it’s always exciting to experience new cultures and share our music with audiences everywhere.

Q: I hope you inspire many people across the world to pursue their dreams, but who are YOUR biggest inspirations? (Question asked by our member Seriously)

Jiseok: RM of BTS inspired me to pursue music. His donation to the Seoul Samsung School’s music program introduced me to K-pop and planted the dream of becoming an idol. His kindness and leadership continue to motivate me every day.

Q: If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why? (Question asked by our member SirTim0thy)

Hyunjin: I admire Billie Eilish for her unique artistry and emotional depth. Her music inspires me to explore different moods and styles in our performances. It would be a dream to collaborate with her one day.

Chanyeon: For me, Taylor Swift is an artist I greatly admire. Her storytelling through music and the way she connects with her audience is truly inspiring. Collaborating with her would be a chance to create something deeply meaningful and memorable.

Jiseok: I look up to BTS’s RM for his lyrical brilliance and leadership. His ability to convey profound messages through music inspires me, and working with him would be an incredible opportunity to learn and grow as an artist.

Q: What kinds of concepts would they like to try in the future? (Question asked by our member RussianRoulette)

Chanyeon: We’d love to explore concepts that integrate storytelling through music and visuals while staying true to our Free-soul POP genre. It’s exciting to think about new ways to express resilience and inclusivity.

Q: Are there any plans to announce official fandom colors soon? (Question asked by our member RussianRoulette)

Hyunjin: Yes, we’re excited to share that Turquoise Blue has already been chosen as our official fandom color! It reflects the beauty and calmness of the ocean, symbolizing the deep connection between Big Ocean and our Pados. We hope it becomes a meaningful symbol for all of us moving forward!

Q: What is one fact about yourself that might surprise others?

Chanyeon: One surprising fact about me is that I really enjoy drawing! It’s a hobby that helps me relax and express my creativity outside of music

Jiseok: Here’s something surprising—I used to be a professional Alpine skier! It’s a big shift from the slopes to the stage, but the discipline I gained from sports really helps me stay focused during our busy schedules.

Hyunjin: I’ve always enjoyed learning new languages, and it turns out I pick them up pretty quickly! It’s been amazing to use that skill to connect with our international Pados when we travel or perform.

Q: Everyone has a quote in life. What is yours?

Chanyeon: One quote I live by is, “Even in the toughest moments, you have the power to shine.” Just like the message of our songs, like "Glow" and "SLOW," which encourage hope and perseverance, it’s a reminder that challenges are just stepping stones to brighter days and greater achievements.

Jiseok: A quote I hold close is: “Go with the flow, but never lose your drive.” Life has its ups and downs, but staying true to your passion makes the journey worthwhile.

Q: Any final words for our Hallyu+ readers?

Hyunjin: To all our Pados and Hallyu+ readers, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for standing by us on this incredible journey. Your love and encouragement are the reasons we strive to break barriers and share music that connects deeply with everyone. We hope our mini-album Follow fills your days with strength, hope, and joy. Let’s keep growing, dreaming, and making waves together!

You can find out more about Big Ocean via their SNS links below:
YouTube: youtube.com/@BigOcean.official
Twitter/x.com: @Big_O_cean
Tik Tok: @big_ocean.official
Spotify: Big Ocean
Instagram: @big_ocean.official

GFX BY @yerm
PROOFREAD BY @Polaris_Tae
INTERVIEW CONDUCTED BY @Polaris_Tae ​

 

[Chococo]

Oh, that's a beautiful and very inspiring interview! Very beautiful meaning behind each one of their songs. I'm rooting very hard for this wonderful group.

Great job, everyone!

 

[UMJI MOODS]

I wish them the best of luck

 

[OutroTearTheFirst]

I remember seeing their debut stage! The technology they use is really cool They are so inspiring!!

 

[RussianRoulette]

I thought they forgot about us since we sent in the questions awhile ago! I follow them on all their social media, so I’m so happy they got back to us!

 

[Polaris_Tae]

I thought they forgot about us since we sent in the questions awhile ago!

Yep, I thought it might seem that way to non-Social Media peeps. Some artists may end up having not much free time in their schedules to quickly reply to our questions. I like to check in on artists we haven't heard back from in a while in order to re-confirm whether the interview opportunity was still happening, and it was always on the table for this interview.

I follow them on all their social media, so I’m so happy they got back to us!

It was a great interview! I've been enjoying covering their journey through both our previous promotional articles as well as having the opportunity to interview them as well! Their utilization and innovation of technology has been such an interesting thing to see.
I'm really interested to see how their career progresses in the future and hope that they (and their label) continue to pave the way for more inclusivity within the Kpop industry in the future!