Big Ocean’s Tidal Wave Adventure in NYC  

By Amanda Moses  

Big Ocean, the first hard-of-hearing K-pop act, took New York City by storm during their third visit to the Big Apple, connecting with their fanbase, affectionately known as Pado, across the city from SoHo to Midtown while promoting their tour and new album, The Greatest Battle. As trailblazers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, Big Ocean continues to amplify messages of resilience, representation, and empowerment. The group also dedicated their latest single, “Make It Up To You,” on May 19 to their fanbase after their European concert was canceled. 

SoHo 

Kicking off their New York City adventure with a dance challenge at hello82 in SoHo, the group spent time interacting with fans, many of whom were also hard of hearing, dancing to their song “One Man Army” and filming TikTok videos together. The event quickly transformed into a celebration of music, community, and accessibility. 

Times Square 

After an evening filled with dancing and fan interactions, Big Ocean returned to one of their favorite New York landmarks: Times Square. Dressed in sleek business attire, the trio posed for photos atop the iconic Father Duffy Square steps, bringing their signature charisma to  li the Crossroads of the World. 

Midtown 

The following day, Big Ocean took a panoramicsunset views from Top of the Rock. From learning about the landmark’s rich history through an immersive short film to stepping onto the thrilling Beam experience, the group embraced every moment of the Manhattan skyline adventure. 

Brooklyn 

The New York stop of “The Greatest Battle” tour took over Music Hall of Williamsburg, where eager Pados packed the venue for Big Ocean’s electrifying performance. Fans sang, cheered, and signed along as the group delivered a showstopping set that highlighted the deep connection they share with supporters around the world. 

Flatiron District 

Big Ocean’s visit to New York City was not only about sightseeing. The group also paid tribute to the city’s rich musical history by visiting historic music companies and further immersing themselves in New York’s creative culture. 

Turtle Bay 

With sweeping views overlooking the United Nations, Big Ocean turned heads at an exclusive penthouse gathering alongside fashion icon Fern Mallis, designer Andy Chia Yu, and Rolling Stone Korea’s digital director Kary H. Sarrey showcasing how their influence continues to expand beyond music alone.  

Photos by Amanda Moses