K-pop band with hearing impairment to showcase AI-powered music at int'l event

By Kim Joo-heon Posted : November 8, 2024, 16:54 Updated : November 8, 2024, 18:27
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This photo shows members of Big Ocean. Courtesy of Parastar Entertainment
SEOUL, November 8 (AJP) - Big Ocean, a Korean boy band whose members have hearing impairments, has been invited to showcase how artificial intelligence can transform lives through music at a major international AI event in Geneva next year.

The three-member group, which uses AI-powered voice conversion technology to produce its songs, will perform at the AI for Good Global Summit in July 2025.

The meeting, organized by the International Telecommunication Union, brings together AI innovators and executives to advance the United Nations' sustainable development goals.

According to the band’s agency, Parastar Entertainment, the group was invited to highlight positive applications of AI technology, which has faced growing scrutiny over its potential for misuse in areas like voice phishing and deepfakes.

Since its inception in 2017, the Geneva gathering has served as a platform for connecting AI innovations with public and private sector leaders to promote beneficial AI solutions globally.

The group's members—Ji-seok, Chan-yeon, and Hyun-jin—communicate through a combination of sign language and speech, aided by cochlear implants and oral communication methods.

Ji-seok was born with congenital hearing impairment, while his bandmates lost their hearing in childhood due to high fevers.

The trio debuted in April after 18 months of training. 

They are set to release their first mini-album, "Follow," on Nov. 12. For its main track, "Flow," the band collaborated with American record producer and songwriter Mark Batson.
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