In this study, to evaluate newly developed Japanese encephalitis (JE) vaccine candidate CJ50003, we assessed its immunogenicity along with a previously commercialized inactivated JE Biken vaccine. The CR0003 viral antigens produced in Vero cells were administered suhcutaneouly to mice either with alum-adjuvanled or free form. The ELISA titers and neutralizing (NEUV antibody titers accounting for major protective immunity in JE were determined. Mice given alum-adjuvanted vaccine had a 10 times higher antigen-specific NEUT antibody response than did those which {lad received free antigens. This NEUT antibody response was maintained until day 168 with NEUT titer more than 1:160. Even with the 0.5 ng of alum-adjuvanted antigen dose, NEUT titer was induced more than 1:10 which is considered as an evidence for seroconversion and protection. Thc mice immune sera had a similar rate of cross-reactivity against three different viral antigens, Nakayama-NlH, P3 and SA14; as determined by ELISA assay. In a mice challenge model, vaccination with the GI50003 conferred more protection than with commercialized Biken vaccine against Nakayama virus. These data demonstrated that CJ50003 vaccine candidate has an excellent prophylactic efficacy and implicated it has a strong potential for further development and commercialization.