We isolated Japanese encephalitis virus genotype 5 from human specimens in South Korea. Whole-genome analysis showed 90.4% identity with other genotype 5 viruses from humans. This virus had a unique insertion in the NS4A gene. However, the envelope protein contained Lys 84, which was specific to strains of genotype 5 viruses from South Korea.
Keywords: Japanese encephalitis virus; South Korea; genetic characterization; genotype 5; viruses.