Big Ocean, a groundbreaking K-pop group under Parastar Entertainment, is making waves in the music industry by breaking barriers and championing inclusivity. Parastar Entertainment, known for its commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive entertainment landscape, is at the forefront of representing talents with disabilities. We had the opportunity to conduct an exclusive written interview with Parastar Entertainment’s CEO, Haley Cha, offering insights into their unique vision and the journey behind these transformative initiatives.
Read on for our exclusive interview with the CEO of Parastar Entertainment, Haley Cha — where she shares insights you won’t find anywhere else.
Interview with Haley Chan, The Inspiring CEO of Parastar Entertainment
About Parastar Entertainment
Can you elaborate on Parastar Entertainment’s vision to lower barriers and close the gap between disabled and non-disabled individuals through media and pop culture? How do you measure your success in achieving this vision?
At Parastar Entertainment, our vision is to create an inclusive and diverse entertainment landscape where individuals with disabilities are represented and celebrated. We aim to dismantle stereotypes and prejudices by showcasing the talents and stories of our artists through various media platforms. Success is measured by the visibility and acceptance our artists gain, the positive feedback from audiences, and the increasing opportunities for collaborations with mainstream media and brands. Additionally, we track the impact of our initiatives on public perceptions and attitudes towards disability.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in creating barrier-free content and events, and how have you overcome them?
Indeed, there were no major challenges in meeting the needs of disabled artists or audiences. Barrier-free is not a difficult concept, contrary to what most non-disabled people think. It’s simply a matter of catering to the basic requests of disabled individuals. Most of these requests include raising the volume of the sound, positioning the speaker towards the artist, providing guides with sign language in loud environments, and not wearing masks for easier lip-reading unless essential, etc.
How does Parastar Entertainment identify and nurture talents with disabilities? Can you share some success stories of artists who have flourished under your guidance?
We identify talents through open auditions, referrals, and community outreach programs. Once selected, we provide tailored training and support to help them hone their skills and build their confidence. A notable success story is Hyunjin from Big Ocean, who went from being an ordinary student to a K-pop idol member. Another success is Jong Uk Kim, who became the first model in a wheelchair to feature in various brand commercials as the main model.
Could you detail the specific training programs and resources provided to your artists to help them excel in the entertainment industry?
Our training programs are comprehensive, covering vocal and dance training, acting workshops, and language classes. We also provide mental health support and physical fitness training. Additionally, we incorporate the use of advanced technologies such as sensory metronomes to aid in rhythm and timing. Our goal is to equip our artists with all the tools they need to succeed.
What makes your artists unique aside from the fact that they have physical disabilities?
Our artists have exceptional talents and unique strengths that truly set them apart. Hyunjin, for example, is a talented singer who also plays the piano beautifully and has a keen musical sensitivity. Chanyeon is a wonderful artist with impressive drawing skills and the ability to create expressive facial expressions. Jiseok is amazing at picking up new dances quickly, often mastering choreography within minutes. Their dedication and passion for their craft, along with their unique abilities, make their performances truly special.
What are some upcoming projects or initiatives Parastar Entertainment is working on to further its mission?
We have several exciting projects in the pipeline, including international collaborations and new music releases from Big Ocean. On the 11th of this month (August), we are releasing a new digital single titled “SLOW,” featuring Young K from the popular boy band DAY 6. The song “SLOW” carries an encouraging message for those who feel they are moving slowly in life. Its lyrics emphasize that going slow is not a problem; what truly matters is moving steadily. By doing so, you will eventually reach higher and further.
About Big Ocean
What inspired the creation of the Kpop Idol group “Big Ocean,” and what unique challenges and opportunities have you encountered in developing this group?
The creation of Big Ocean was driven by a desire to break barriers and showcase the immense talents of individuals with unique perspectives. We aimed to transcend the conventional norms of the K-pop industry and create a group that could resonate with a diverse audience. While we faced challenges such as adapting traditional training methods to suit the members’ needs and addressing societal prejudices, it also presented opportunities to innovate and develop a distinctive, inclusive performance style that truly sets Big Ocean apart.
What makes you think that it was possible to form a Kpop group from deaf members in the first place?
The belief in this possibility stemmed from witnessing the incredible potential and charm of individuals with diverse abilities. I felt that once someone has that unique charm, nothing would prevent them from gaining attention and love from fans. My focus wasn’t on whether people have disabilities or the obstacles we might face; I was fully prepared to overcome any challenges. I knew that with the proper support, training, and innovative approaches, they could excel in the highly competitive K-pop industry.
How did you convince members of Big Ocean to follow the path as Kpop idols? After all, there was no guarantee that the concept would be successful, right? Or did the company already feel confident that Big Ocean would be a huge breakthrough?
Convincing the members involved shows them the potential impact they could have and the opportunity to inspire millions. We were transparent about the challenges and emphasized the support and resources we would provide. While there were no guarantees, our confidence came from our belief in their talent and the growing global movement towards inclusivity. The convincing process wasn’t difficult, as the members were eager to try new things and seemed destined to be idols. The only reason they hadn’t tried before was the lack of chance and the discouragement they had faced. Once they saw the support and belief we had in them, they were ready to embrace the journey.
How do you ensure that the performances of “Big Ocean” are inclusive and engaging for both deaf and hearing audiences?
We integrate sign language into our performances, ensuring they are visually engaging for audiences who use sign language while maintaining high-quality musical and dance elements for all viewers. Our choreography is designed to be expressive and convey the emotions of the songs. Additionally, we use visual effects, lighting, and subtitles to enhance accessibility. Feedback from our diverse fanbase is crucial, and we continually adapt to ensure our performances are inclusive and engaging for everyone.
Insights as CEO
As the CEO, what personal experiences or motivations drive your commitment to fostering an inclusive entertainment industry?
I’ve shared how meeting Paralympic athletes while hosting an event as an MC deeply motivated me. Their talent and charm left a lasting impression on me. Beyond that, I am someone who is drawn to tackling challenging problems that others often shy away from. The prevailing belief that disabled individuals cannot become TV stars or prominent figures is something I strongly oppose. I am driven by a desire to challenge and change this misconception, finding personal satisfaction in creating a more inclusive and equitable entertainment industry.
What advice would you give aspiring artists with disabilities who want to pursue a career in the entertainment industry?
My advice is to believe in your talents and never let societal perceptions limit your potential. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your vision and can help you navigate challenges. Be persistent, resilient, and open to learning. The entertainment industry is evolving, and opportunities for diverse talents are increasing. Stay true to yourself, and let your unique perspective and experiences enrich your art. Your journey will inspire others and pave the way for more inclusive representation in the industry.
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She is pretty and smart ??