abcnews.go.com
K-Pop Group Big Ocean: Redefining Music with Technology and Inclusion
Big Ocean, a three-member South Korean K-pop group with hearing impairments, uses assistive technology and sign language in their performances, achieving international success with a European tour and second mini-album release, while inspiring their global fanbase to learn sign language.
- How does Big Ocean's use of technology address the unique challenges of performing K-pop music with hearing disabilities?
- The group's success challenges traditional notions of K-pop performance and highlights South Korea's evolving inclusivity in the entertainment industry. Their innovative use of technology and commitment to accessibility has cultivated a global fanbase actively learning sign language to connect with them.
- What is the significance of Big Ocean's success for the South Korean entertainment industry and broader representation of people with disabilities?
- Big Ocean, a South Korean K-pop group with hearing disabilities, uses technology like vibrating smartwatches and LED metronomes to overcome communication barriers and perform complex choreography. Their first year included a European tour and the release of their second mini-album, "Underwater.
- What are the potential long-term implications of Big Ocean's innovative approach to music and performance, and what broader systemic changes might it inspire?
- Big Ocean's future trajectory involves potential collaborations with international artists like Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish, further amplifying their global reach and influence on disability representation in the music industry. Their experiences may inspire broader industry adoption of assistive technology for performers with disabilities.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames Big Ocean's story as one of triumph over adversity, highlighting their innovative use of technology and their growing international success. This positive framing is appropriate given the context, but it's worth noting that it focuses primarily on their achievements rather than dwelling on the challenges they've faced. The headline and introduction immediately establish a celebratory tone, setting the stage for a positive portrayal of the group's journey.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and positive, focusing on the group's achievements and resilience. There is no overtly loaded language used to describe the band or their experiences. The descriptions are factual and celebratory without being overly effusive or sentimental.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the group's use of technology to overcome their hearing disabilities and their international success, but it could benefit from including perspectives on the broader systemic challenges faced by artists with disabilities in South Korea's entertainment industry. While the article mentions limited career opportunities, a more in-depth exploration of these challenges would enrich the narrative. Additionally, the article could benefit from mentioning any challenges the band faced in securing representation or navigating the industry's infrastructure.
Sustainable Development Goals
Big Ocean, a K-pop group with hearing-impaired members, challenges norms in the entertainment industry, promoting inclusivity and providing role models for people with disabilities. Their success showcases the talent and potential of individuals often excluded from mainstream opportunities. The group's use of technology to overcome performance challenges also highlights innovation in accessibility.