Big Ocean, the first hearing-impaired K-pop group, are breaking barriers and winning hearts worldwide. Fresh off a whirlwind tour across Europe and the U.S., including a stop at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. (America’s only college for the deaf and hard of hearing), and many K-pop cafés, conventions, and VIP meet-and-greets, the trio explored the culture, attractions, and cuisine of France, a Swiss amusement park, and local eateries—leaving every city buzzing with excitement and inspiration.
Since debuting in April 2024, Jiseok, PJ, and Chanyeon have worked tirelessly to make their fans, Pados, proud. Early on, they relied on choreographers, technology, and flashing screens to stay in sync, but through practice in choreography, sign language, and vocals, they have mastered rhythm and pronunciation. On this tour, they enjoyed teaching fans sign language, complimenting them in English, and learning about local cultures.
Overseas, the boys engaged fans with a lively dance challenge, letting over a dozen Pados join their choreography. In São Paulo, they attended Anime Friends, one of Brazil’s largest anime festivals, where they connected with fellow pop culture enthusiasts. They also visited the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to discuss how AI helps sync their vocals and choreography. From Greece to Germany to Copenhagen, the group prioritized communicating with Pados in every city, overcoming language barriers to make every fan feel included.
In the U.S., the group performed their full discography and latest hit, “Bucket Hat,” thrilling fans by giving away hats to lucky audience members. Each member also had a solo moment: Chanyeon dazzled with “Like Jennie,” flawlessly hitting every beat while showing Aegyo (애교), or cuteness, despite being the group’s oldest member. PJ moved fans with “Sinking,” combining vocals, sign language, and acting, while Jiseok energized the crowd with his dance performance of “Soda Pop” from K-pop Demon Hunters. As a special surprise in Falls Church, Virginia, all three danced to “Your Idol” from the same soundtrack.
Big Ocean is just getting started. With 990,000+ Instagram followers and monthly TikTok livestreams, their global fan base continues to grow. As the trio rests with family in Korea, Pados are already buzzing, some even connected through virtual fan calls on Timeless Notes pre-tour. We could not be happier for Jiseok, PJ, and Chanyeon—and can’t wait to see them back in the UK and U.S. for the next chapter.
