This year’s Seoul Jazz Festival drew nearly 40,000 music lovers for a weekend of fun, food and diverse music, though there appeared to be room for improvement.



Running from Saturday to Sunday at the Olympic Park in southeastern Seoul, the 13th edition of the annual event featured 48 acts from Korea and abroad, such as 90-year-old Cuban jazz legend Portuondo and crossover band Clean Bandit. Live performances took place at five venues spread across the park.





Audience members watch hip-hop musician Crush’s performance at May Forest on Sunday during the 2019 Seoul Jazz Festival. (Private Curve)



Highlights of the event included performances by jazz guitarist John Scofield, singer Omara Portuondo, trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, band Pink Martini and singer-songwriter Lauv, which took place at May Forest.



Portuondo, a Cuban legend who is a founding member of the Buena Vista Social Club, delighted the audience with her moving voice and soulful rhythm. Though she had to walk with assistance, her voice was full of energy.



The nearly 90-year-old vocalist sang about 10 songs while seated, including “Drume Negrita,” “Say Cubana,” and “Besame Mucho,” in a 90-minute performance.





Vocalist Omara Portuondo of the Buena Vista Social Club sings Saturday during the 2019 Seoul Jazz Festival. (Private Curve)