Korea Tourism Organization teams up with deaf idol group Big Ocean for barrier-free travel program

The Korea Tourism Organization and Big Ocean, South Korea's first idol group composed of deaf performers, have launched a barrier-free travel program to promote the value of "open tourism" in everyday life.

The Korea Tourism Organization said the two-day program, running Wednesday through Thursday in Suwon and Gangneung, is being held in partnership with Big Ocean, who serve as honorary ambassadors for the organization's open tourism initiative. The program was designed to raise awareness of open tourism — the idea that anyone can enjoy travel free of physical barriers — and to expand travel opportunities for people with limited access to tourism.

On Wednesday, a sign-language walking tour in Suwon brought together 20 participants — both deaf and hearing — who are able to hold everyday conversations in sign language. The group walked from Yeonmudae to Banghwasuryu Pavilion and took part in traditional Korean archery and ceramic hand-painting. A sign-language docent accompanied deaf participants throughout the tour of Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. Restaurants, cafes and all other stops along the route were selected for wheelchair accessibility as barrier-free venues.

On Thursday, 36 participants — including people with limited access to tourism and volunteer staff — are visiting Gangneung. They will take part in plogging activities at Yeongok Beach, a barrier-free seaside venue, and Solhyanggi Campsite before touring Gangneung Arte Museum. The day wraps up with a mini-concert by Big Ocean on the beach. The Gangneung Barrier-Free Tourism Center is providing accessible vehicles for all transportation throughout the itinerary.

Moon Ji-young, head of the Korea Tourism Organization's open tourism content team, said the trip was "a meaningful opportunity to show that disability need not be an obstacle to travel, and that anyone can enjoy a trip as part of everyday life." She added that the organization would use a promotional video documenting the journey to lead efforts in spreading the message of open tourism for all.