Donghae is one of the singers, dancers, and rappers in Super Junior. When Donghae was little, he originally wanted to be an athlete, but decided to follow the dreams of his father and become a singer. In 2001, Donghae asked his dad if he could audition for SM Entertainment and his dad said yes. Donghae auditioned, passed, and began training as a singer, dancer, actor, and model and even won an award for the "Best Outward Appearance" along with co-member Sungmin under SM Entertainment.

          Donghae was soon placed in a group called "Smile" with four other guys, including co-member, Leeteuk. The group idea was eventually dropped though, and Donghae, as well as Leeteuk, started training with new trainees(the current Super Junior members) and eventually became members of Super Junior 05.

          Sadly Donghae's father, his greatest inspiration, influence, and best friend, died of cancer as Donghae was flying home after winning Super Junior's first ever award. Prior to his father's death, Donghae gave a speech at the award ceremony thanking God and his father, and wished his father would regain his health. He did not get to see his dad before his passing. Donghae decided to continue his musical career for his father.

"If I had one wish, it would be for my father to see one of my shows, just once, and for him to be proud of me."