D-CRUNCH (디크런치) was a 6 member South Korean hip-hop focused group that debuted underneath All-S Company on August 6th, 2018. The group consisted of various members that have since left the group starting from 2020. One member, Dylan, left the group in 2022 and was the first member to do so after MinHyuk‘s departure in 2021. Despite signing with Ai Grand Korea in 2020, they would unfortunately disband on November 9th, 2022.
Park YeonJae (Dylan Park) was known for his various roles within the group. This included maknae (July 26th, 2002), rapper, visual, and vocalist. He first made his pre-debut in the sub unit Geupsik-Dan on July 10th before being the 1st artist to be revealed as a member of D-CRUNCH on June 5th, 2018. He was also known for being a fan of and looking up to his role models of BTS’ V, DEAN, and more.
When speaking on and bringing awareness to different issues, one that is rarely brought up is the ability to do ASL (American Sign Language). According to numerous sites, other stars who have brought awareness and showed their proficiency in sign language include Weki Meki’s Choi YooJung, Seo HyunJin, BTOB, Jeon SoMin, BTS’ V, MAMAMOO’s HwaSa and WheeIn. South Korean Actor Kang Hoon also attempted to learn KSL (Korean Sign Langauge) from an interpreter as apart of the Korean Sign Language Awareness Campaign.
Bringing recognition to the fact that the world is not always as accessible as we think it is for everyone is a great step. Idols, actors, and celebrities provide a great sense of awareness when using their influence to touch upon these topics. This is essential no matter how big or small the impact might be.
On August 23rd, 2023, Park YeonJae (Dylan) announced to his fans through his official Instagram account, @yj_park2002, that he received his official beginner sign language certificate, an impressive feat earned through hard work and studying. Many praised his efforts and stated their interest in sign language, even making attempts to learn it because of Dylan’s announcement.
What do you think we can do to improve awareness to this issue? Have you done, looked into, or researched about this topic? What did you find interesting?
Have you seen Dylan’s announcement yet? Why do you personally think it’s important to share awareness about sign language and its meanings?
Check out the official announcement on Dylan’s Official Instagram here.
Congrats once again to Dylan!