'Brave Detectives 4' Wins Korea First Brand Award for Second Consecutive Year

The show 'Brave Detectives 4', which recently saw the temporary departure of cast member Lee Yi-kyung, has been honored with the 'Korea First Brand Award' for the second year in a row.

According to the Korea Consumer Brand Committee, the T-Cast E Channel's 'Brave Detectives 4' (directed by Lee Ji-sun) was recognized in the crime prevention category as a 'program expected to lead 2026'.

The 'Korea First Brand Award' is the largest brand awards ceremony in the country, selecting brands expected to lead the year through consumer surveys. This year, surveys were conducted in four Asian countries, including Korea, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Among them, 'Brave Detectives 4' was selected as a program expected to lead 2026, marking a significant achievement, especially as it has won the award for two consecutive years since 2025.

Director Lee Ji-sun expressed gratitude, saying, "'Brave Detectives' is becoming a long-running program in its fifth year. I thank the detectives who have taken difficult steps with us," and added, "We will strive to show an even better side this year and become the best in this genre." She also expressed her affection by stating, "We will always produce the show sincerely and authentically so that it becomes a must-appear broadcast for all detectives before retirement in Korea."

'Brave Detectives 4' is a program that covers the real investigation stories of detectives who have fought against crime to protect the safe daily lives of citizens. Detectives who were directly involved in the cases appear on the show to share vivid investigation experiences. Since its first broadcast in 2022, it has continued to season 4, establishing itself as a representative crime entertainment program in Korea and receiving consistent love.

In addition to being ranked first in the current affairs and culture category by Wavve in 2025, 'Brave Detectives 4' has been recognized for its practical contributions to crime prevention, receiving a certificate of appreciation from the National Police Agency, acknowledging both its public interest and popularity.

The popularity of the program has also led to the production of a digital spinoff, the E Channel original web entertainment 'Detective Talk', which has continued to season 2, further solidifying its position as a brand of crime prevention programs. 'Brave Detectives 4' airs every Friday at 9:50 PM.

Meanwhile, Lee Yi-kyung, who is currently appearing on 'Brave Detectives 4', is under police investigation related to a personal controversy. As a result, 'Brave Detectives 4' will continue recording with guest appearances for the time being. Last month, the 'Brave Detectives 4' team stated, "Guests will appear for the time being," and "Lee Yi-kyung's departure has not been confirmed yet."

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr