The 17th Seoul Jazz Festival lit up the KSPO Dome with a stunning array of performances, but none captured hearts quite like the surprise duet between American R&B singer UMI and South Korean pop sensation Baekhyun. The two artists shared the stage for the first live performance of their hit collaboration “Do What You Do,” delivering a soulful and emotionally rich set that left fans breathless.
UMI, known for her ethereal vocals and introspective lyrics, welcomed Baekhyun as a special guest, creating a buzz even before the first note rang out. As the pair harmonized on stage, the synergy between their voices was undeniable, elevating the track beyond its studio version. Audience members described the live rendition as “even more heartfelt and immersive,” with many capturing and sharing clips online that quickly went viral.
The special performance was part of Baekhyun’s set, which also included standout tracks from his fifth mini-album, Essence of Reverie. Among the highlights were solo numbers “Lemonade” and “Elevator,” which brought a vibrant energy to the festival’s laid-back atmosphere. With Lemonade, Baekhyun added a touch of freshness and charm, complementing the festival’s eclectic lineup.
Released earlier this year, Do What You Do received critical acclaim and charted on the Circle Download Chart, peaking at number 32. The Seoul Jazz Festival marked the song’s live debut and showcased the cross-cultural power of music, blending UMI’s smooth R&B style with Baekhyun’s polished K-pop vocals.
Fans both at the venue and online praised the collaboration as a standout moment of the festival. Social media was flooded with reactions, calling it “iconic,” “unexpected,” and “a dream come true.”
With this memorable performance, Baekhyun and UMI have not only delivered a festival highlight but also set a high bar for future global music collaborations.
