We love a group that changes the game, but Big Ocean didn’t just change the game. They rewrote the entire rulebook. Since debuting in April 2024, Big Ocean has been making serious waves (pun fully intended) as the world’s first Deaf/Hard of Hearing K-POP group. The trio, PJ, Jiseok, and Chanyeon, aren’t just performers. They’re powerhouses of emotion, movement, and purpose.
Every song they sign, every stage they step onto, and every fan interaction they have reminds us that music goes beyond sound. It’s about connection, and Big Ocean delivers that in abundance. But what really makes Big Ocean special? Just ask their fans (known as PADO), who had a lot to say about how this trailblazing group has changed their lives for the better. Spoiler alert: you might want tissues for this one.
They Immediately Gained Our ‘Attention’
Big Ocean are a first-of-their-kind group, especially in K-POP, so it was inevitable that they would turn their heads when it came to debuting. And when they caught fans’ attention with their concept, it was their talent and irresistible personality that made them stay.
“I wasn’t planning on stanning another group, but they wouldn’t leave my mind; I kept thinking of their debut song, ‘Glow,’ and searching them online… So I decided on the 21st, the day after debut, that I would stan them,” admits Ademoons from France.
Sharing what solidified her as a PADO, Christy from Michigan says: “I really connected to them after listening to their intro interviews leading up to their debut—what each member did before choosing this career, and what inspired them to pursue it. They all had such heartfelt interviews, and their personalities shone through during them.”
While being Deaf artists offers curiosity to the world, there is so much more to Big Ocean than their disabilities.
Shining A Spotlight On Their Fans
Let’s be real: being a fan is personal. It’s about feeling understood. For so many PADO, Big Ocean is the first time they’ve truly felt represented.
“As a disabled woman, to see disabled artists being celebrated authentically makes me feel like maybe I, too, deserve space. I definitely see the world through a brighter lens now and see possibilities where before I saw only obstacles,” shares Kasia, from the UK.
Laura from Colorado shares a similar sentiment: “I have been disabled my entire life, and it has made all sorts of things in life extremely hard for me. Too many times I’ve wanted to give up, but discovering Big Ocean and learning more about them and what they stand for—and simply seeing boys who can’t hear like other people pursue a dream of singing and dancing—helps make me believe that no matter what disability I have or struggle, I too can follow a dream or try something new or prove people wrong and show that no matter what I’m struggling with, I can do it. I wouldn’t have this mindset or goals for myself if it weren’t for Big Ocean.”
Meanwhile, Breanna from Michigan feels empowered by the group. “Big Ocean has taught me that I can accomplish anything. If I don’t understand something, it doesn’t mean I will NEVER understand. I just might need to approach the problem a different way. They’ve shown me the beauty in doing things differently.”
We’re not crying, you’re crying.
A Beacon Of Hope, A Lighthouse In The Dark
PADO are proof that music heals, and Big Ocean’s music has been a source of strength during the darkest days.
“I found them when I was at my lowest. Their music gave me strength and hope that it’s okay to fall as long as you can get up.” Mahima from Canada explains to us.
Even during the darker moments in life, Big Ocean has been able to guide their fans through it all.
Sina from Germany shares her experience. “I found Big Ocean during April of last year when I was receiving treatment in the hospital. They have been there through my whole sickness treatment for a year and gave me comfort when I needed it. I would love to thank them for being my comfort zone when I saw no hope in life.”
From hospital beds to late-night breakdowns, Big Ocean has shown up when fans needed them most, and their impact is unforgettable.
Inspiration Through Shared Experiences
Big Ocean are no strangers to opening up about struggles and the more vulnerable sides to their journeys. Being honest and raw in their personal battles has helped those with similar hurdles push through them. For many fans, Big Ocean isn’t just a source of entertainment, but a mirror—a true reflection of ourselves.
“PJ talked about hard times and trying to figure out the emotions he felt, and it clicked hard with me. I don’t always know how to talk about my emotions or explain them, and I tend to shut down. It’s the fact that he went live to talk about it and opened up to PADO as if we’re all best friends. He truly helps me realize so much about myself. I can’t thank Big Ocean enough,” explains Bianca from Texas.
For Kirsty in England, they’ve helped her face her internal battles with self-esteem. “Big Ocean help me accept myself when I’ve always found it hard to. I have always had a tough time with low self-esteem and a huge hatred for my appearance. Showing myself on camera is something that terrifies me to my core, and I’m always scared of being judged, but when I have fancalls with Big Ocean, I feel nothing but love and acceptance. They’re truly helping me learn to love myself entirely for who I am, flaws and all.”
“Stars in the Sky Are Shining Just For You and I”
For many PADO, life has become a little bit brighter with Big Ocean by their sides. Fandom can provide an essential escape for many, as well as help change their perspective on things. From music shows like SBS Inkigayo and KBS Music Bank to being featured in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia, Big Ocean has already made waves. But fans know their influence goes deeper than awards.
“I teach students with and without disabilities together. We emphasize the common ground between all of us while also bringing an understanding of what each other may need to be fully included or be able to fully participate. Big Ocean is doing that on a global scale. Big Ocean has the talent and ability to perform on the same stage as the senior artists before them, but in a completely new way that allows them to show off their own unique style,” explains MaryG from Kentucky.
“Big Ocean are my biggest comfort group. Since they’ve come into my life, my life has been so much better and happier. They bring me joy that no one else ever has. They’ve also opened up so much more for me, whether that be breaking my anxiety for something simple like video calls or more extreme like travelling, especially to go see them,” Chantelle from the UK details.
Humble and Relatable? That’s Big Ocean
The three members of Big Ocean are very grounded, down-to-earth people. This can be attributed to the very normal lives they lived before becoming trainees at Parastar Entertainment. PJ was studying to become a cybersecurity engineer, while Chanyeon was an audiologist. Meanwhile, Jiseok was a professional alpine skier and also worked in a cafe. It makes sense why they feel so approachable to fans, given their ability to relate to them on a personal level.
Erica, a healthcare worker from Texas, shared: “In working with patients who are Deaf/HoH, especially young patients, Big Ocean has opened a way for me to connect with them and show patients that anything is possible. Being hard of hearing myself, Big Ocean has given me more confidence that with the right tools and mindset, I’m never lacking as a provider for my patients… that I can be great, just as I am.”
Jeane from Arizona, who became partially Deaf later in life, echoed this: “Their hard work and artistry remind me to re-embrace the things I’m good at and take more chances, too. And their fandom, PADO, has been a wellspring of new friendships and even professional opportunities.”
Paving A New Way In K-POP
A large discussion point within the K-POP community is about “paving the way”—who did what to put K-POP on the map. But for Big Ocean, they’re paving a new way, bringing accessibility and inclusivity to the forefront of the spotlight.
“I think what they are doing is very important to break barriers across the world and society. People who are not disabled tend not to think about that, and they act like ‘it’s not their problem,’ but Big Ocean shows how they are people like everyone else and that they matter too, so I think that’s wonderful, and it makes me want to cheer them on forever,” explains Ari from Italy.
Meanwhile, KonohaSam from Italy truly believes that what Big Ocean are doing is both powerful and moving. “I think K-POP is conquering the world right now. The world needs to be educated on many things, and art educates people with beauty, striking directly at the heart. Big Ocean are doing this, and it’s the most beautiful thing that can be done.”
More Than Just Artists, But Innovators With A Vision
Big Ocean have always wanted to be more than just artists who make people happy. They want to be the change society needs. They’ve spoken frequently about wanting to break down barriers and boundaries between disabled people and the world, and they continue to inspire people all the time.
“PJ’s speech at the 2024 Future Dialogue for Global Innovation made me realize I was supporting artists who were not only talented on stage but also changing the world with their vision for the future,” shares Stephanie from Arizona.
Casper from the USA adds: “Their dedication to their fans and their message is admirable, and their outlook on life is inspiring. Each and every one of them is an incredibly hard worker, and I hope they know how loved and appreciated they all are.”
Sending Love Right Back
Having had such a profound impact on their lives, what would PADO like to say to Big Ocean?
“A year has passed since the debut; look what you’ve accomplished—it is so much! I am so proud of you. I know you’ve had a great impact on the K-POP industry. Now more people in the industry are approaching sign language (for example, including a word in KSL in a choreo, signing a word in KSL during a fairy ending, etc.), and I am sure you are one of the reasons,” is Angel from Italy’s message.
Meanwhile, Alme from Chile has a lot of gratitude: “Thank you for being yourself, for showing us that dreams come true. That no matter how hard it is or how long it takes, if we fight for what we want, in the end, everything will be okay. I love you guys, and thank you for being there for me in my lowest and highest times. For making me smile when I only wanted to cry, and for letting me show my students that everything is possible.”
Jazz from Wales gets a little emotional in her message to Big Ocean: “Even though it felt accidental at the time, I feel like the way I found you was fate. You’ve helped me find my purpose in life, given me a community in which I feel I belong, and helped me realise that I can still live my dreams, even if it’s a little different from how I expected because of my disabilities. I have thanked you before, but I will never stop singing your praises or stop supporting you in any way I possibly can. Thank you, Big Ocean. For helping me face my battles head-on, even when I’ve felt the urge to surrender.”
So… What Does Big Ocean Mean To Fans?
Big Ocean means courage. Big Ocean means representation. Big Ocean means joy, and change, and possibility. They’re not just creating art, they’re creating community. And for the millions who’ve found hope, strength, and love through them, Big Ocean is proof that music really is a universal language.
So if you haven’t already? Jump in. The tide is rising.
Are you a fan of Big Ocean? What do they mean to you? Let us know by tweeting us at @TheHoneyPOP or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
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