Parastar Entertainment empowers talents with disabilities. On April 20th, 2024, Parastar debuted the K-pop trio Big Ocean, with members PJ, Jiseok, and Chanyeon.

While hearing impairment is part of their story, it does not solely define them. Big Ocean strives to thrive and transcend.

“As the first idol group with disabilities, we face pressures, but we aim to bring something refreshing and meaningful,” Chanyeon remarks.

PJ joined Parastar in 2020, training as a TV host and model while creating YouTube content. “When the Big Ocean project started, I was fortunate to be the first to be cast,” PJ says.

At a fan meeting for PJ, Jiseok caught the attention of Parastar’s CEO, Haley Cha. Jiseok recalls, “She invited me to audition for Big Ocean, which was an incredible opportunity.”

Lihoo, a celebrated deaf actor in Korea and a member of the Parastar team, endorsed Chanyeon. “After auditioning, I was grateful to be selected to join,” Chanyeon shares.

CREATING CONNECTIONS

Leading up to their debut, the members of Big Ocean dedicated over five hours each day to interacting with followers on TikTok Live.

“These interactions allowed us to connect with fans who understood our environment and shared our experiences,” Big Ocean tells Men Korea.

“Our goal is to bridge the gap between disabled and non-disabled people, breaking down stereotypes and prejudices,” PJ states.

THE FUTURE

Chanyeon envisions evolving with each performance. “My dream is to be known as an artist who turns the impossible into possible and takes Big Ocean on a world concert tour.”

Jiseok strives for growth and genuineness. “I want us to perform live and genuinely share our stories with our fans, which will require intense training and dedication.”

PJ shares his vision for the future. “We hope for a future where ‘barrier-free’ isn’t needed, and disability is just a characteristic. We aim to continue challenging ourselves musically and exploring unique perceptions of sound.”