Melon, the music platform operated by Kakao Entertainment, is joining the "18th Seoul Jazz Festival 2026" as an official sponsor.
Melon announced Monday that it will participate as an official sponsor of the Seoul Jazz Festival 2026 and host online and offline events allowing fans to experience the festival earlier and more deeply. Marking its 18th anniversary in 2026, the Seoul Jazz Festival is one of Korea's top music festivals. It has narrowed the gap between jazz and the general public through diverse music genres and high-quality performances, attracting about 60,000 audience members each year and building a loyal fan base.
Through this sponsorship, Melon will roll out special content on Melon Magazine and social media events, expanding its points of contact with music fans both at and beyond the festival site. Melon Magazine is currently running a special feature titled "Seoul Jazz Festival Lineup TOP 10," spotlighting 10 major artists set to headline the 2026 Seoul Jazz Festival. The content introduces in detail the musical worlds and viewing points of artists spanning jazz, pop, soul, hip-hop and rock. An official mood playlist for the Seoul Jazz Festival, designed to let fans feel the festival's excitement in advance, is also available.
In connection with the Melon Magazine special content, Melon is also running a "SNS Favorite Pick" event. Participants who read the "Seoul Jazz Festival 2026: More Fun When You Know" content on Melon Magazine and post a screenshot of their most anticipated artist on Melon's Instagram, tagging a friend they want to go with, will be entered into a drawing to win Seoul Jazz Festival tickets.
This year's Seoul Jazz Festival has confirmed appearances by top artists from Korea and abroad. On the opening day, May 22, the stage will feature Janelle Monáe, known for performances blending soul, funk and hip-hop; legendary jazz trumpeter Arturo Sandoval, a 10-time Grammy winner; DxS (Dokyeom X Seungkwan), the "main vocals" duo from K-pop group Seventeen; and singer-songwriter Jang Beom-june, who sings honest lyrics with a clean voice.
On May 23, Jon Batiste, a seven-time Grammy winner transcending jazz and pop; 23-year veteran hip-hop group Epik High; singer-songwriter Baek Ye-rin with her solid musical world; and NCT members Taeyong and Haechan will fill the stage with their distinct styles.
On May 24, jazz legend Herbie Hancock, boasting a 65-year career and 14 Grammy wins; Medeski Martin & Wood, who add experimental sounds to traditional jazz; Hyukoh, whose understated music delicately probes emotions; and Silica Gel, known for psychedelic textures and explosive energy, will close out the festival's final day.
"The Seoul Jazz Festival is Korea's premier music festival where fans can experience polished performances by top artists from home and abroad all in one place," a Melon official said. "Through this sponsorship, Melon will help music fans experience the festival's excitement online in advance and enjoy the festival more richly on site."
