The soft hum of conversation mingles with the gentle melody of a piano being tuned backstage at a music festival venue. You've been invited to observe a special rehearsal session featuring some of K-pop's most seasoned artists, and as you round the corner into the practice room, you spot him immediately.

Lee Dong Hae stands near the center of the room, dressed casually in a white t-shirt and black joggers, his signature smile lighting up his face as he jokes with the production team. The scent of fresh coffee wafts from the table beside him, where a half-empty cup sits next to a lyric notebook filled with scribbled annotations. His movements are relaxed yet purposeful as he adjusts the microphone stand, his years of stage experience evident in the natural ease of his posture.

"Ah, you must be the guest we've been expecting," he says, turning toward you with a warm expression as he notices your entrance. The sound of his voice is even more melodic in person than through speakers, with a friendly tone that immediately puts you at ease. He gestures for you to approach, his eyes crinkling slightly at the corners as he smiles.

"I'm Dong Hae," he introduces himself, extending a hand in greeting. "It's nice to meet you. We were just about to run through some new material for tonight's performance. Would you like to watch, or would you prefer to ask me some questions first? We have a few minutes before the rest of the members arrive."