Editor: Prachi Vaid (Delhi, India)
Parastar Entertainment has officially announced the launch of a global audition to recruit new members for Big Ocean, the world’s first K-pop idol group composed of Deaf and hard-of-hearing artists.
Big Ocean was created to challenge long-standing barriers in the global music industry and to demonstrate that Deaf artists can perform, connect, and thrive on international stages while preserving their identity, language, and culture. Since its debut, the group has drawn global attention for redefining what accessibility and inclusion can look like within mainstream pop music.
As part of Big Ocean’s continued growth and global expansion, Parastar Entertainment is now inviting talented individuals from around the world to apply for the Big Ocean Global Audition, aimed at discovering the next generation of Deaf and hard-of-hearing artists.
BIG OCEAN GLOBAL AUDITION: KEY DETAILS
The global audition is open to applicants of all nationalities and will accept submissions until January 31, 2026. Eligible applicants include Deaf or hard-of-hearing male candidates, as well as CODA (Children of Deaf Adults), who were born in or after the year 2000.
Applicants are required to submit basic profile information, including their name, date of birth, height, and weight, along with links to their personal social media accounts, if available. They must also submit two photographs, one front-facing and one full-body, and a single performance video. The performance video may feature a vocal performance, either a cappella or with instrumental backing, a dance performance using free choreography or a cover, or a rap performance that may be freestyle or original.
While not mandatory, additional qualifications such as the ability to communicate in foreign languages, the use of sign languages including Korean Sign Language, International Sign, or American Sign Language, and experience in creative fields such as lyric writing, composition, or choreography may strengthen an application. Prior experience in stage or broadcast performances is also considered an advantage.
Parastar Entertainment stated that only selected candidates will be contacted individually, and that submitted materials will not be returned. Any false information provided during the application process may result in disqualification. Applicants must also consent to the use of their submitted visual materials for audition and promotional purposes.
Parastar Entertainment emphasizes that this global audition is not simply about recruiting new members but about building an international platform where Deaf artists are visible, valued, and empowered within mainstream culture.
“Through Big Ocean, we aim to continue expanding access and representation for Deaf artists worldwide, while creating meaningful opportunities to perform and connect with global audiences,” a representative from Parastar Entertainment stated.
Organizations and communities supporting Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals are encouraged to share the audition and recommend potential candidates.
For additional information or promotional materials, interested parties may contact Parastar Entertainment Co., Ltd. through their official website at www.parastar.org or via email at contact@parastar.org
This is such an important and powerful step for the global music industry. Big Ocean isn’t just redefining K-pop, it’s challenging the idea of who gets visibility and opportunity on mainstream stages. Creating space for Deaf and hard-of-hearing artists while respecting their language and culture is real inclusion, not just a buzzword. Wishing all the applicants courage and confidence — representation like this truly matters.
They don’t just perform music, they translate emotion. Big Ocean deserves every bit of love❤️
This is incredible! Big Ocean is breaking barriers and showing that talent knows no limits. I love how they’re creating a global platform for Deaf and hard-of-hearing artists to shine on an international stage. Can’t wait to see the next generation of members join and inspire the world!
I found this announcement quite meaningful. Creating a space for deaf artists in K-pop shows how things are changing, even if slowly. I hope this opens more opportunities and encourages others to think differently about music and performance.
What a powerful and inspiring announcement! This global audition for Big Ocean marks an incredible step toward inclusivity in K-pop — celebrating talent, diversity, and accessibility on a global stage. It’s wonderful to see the industry evolving to welcome different voices and stories. This initiative not only expands what K-pop can be but also inspires hope and opportunity for many aspiring artists around the world!
A great step towards promoting inclusions of all in music and kpop groups. It’s great to give every person and group the right to be recognised and represent their passion in music despite barriers
“It is so inspiring to see Parastar Entertainment opening doors not just for Deaf and hard-of-hearing artists, but for the CODA community as well. Big Ocean is proving that music is a universal language that transcends sound. This global search is a huge win for representation, and I can’t wait to see how the group evolves with new international talent!
Huge thanks to Prachi Vaid for covering this! It’s refreshing to see Hallyuism spotlighting such a groundbreaking move toward inclusivity. Detailed reporting on the specific requirements—like the inclusion of CODA and International Sign—makes it so much easier for the community to spread the word. This isn’t just music news; it’s a cultural shift. Great read!”
This is amazing! Big Ocean is pushing boundaries and proving that talent has no limits. It’s inspiring to see them create a global space for Deaf and hard-of-hearing artists to shine. Excited to see how the next generation continues this journey. Truly inspiring
I knew about the group already but not the initiative. Kudos to the author for covering this in such heartfelt words. It is such a good initiative for the inclusion of deaf, hard-to-hear and CODA individuals with musical talent and passion into the mainstream music industry or the wider entertainment world. This kind of representation doesn’t just bring diversity to the stage, it also helps fans with the similar characteristics feel seen, resonate, and like they truly belong in the K-pop community. I love this idea so much, it shows that music really is for everone.❤️
This announcement feels like a powerful step forward for representation in K-pop. Big Ocean already challenged the idea of what an idol group “should” look like, and this global audition shows real commitment to inclusion, not just symbolism. It’s inspiring to see a platform that values sign language, identity, and lived experience alongside talent and performance skills.
Big ocean being the start for deaf artists in kpop giving new & wider meaning to music & artistry. Truly art has no limits. This kind of space would give others chance who want to showcase their talent despite having differences