A WebmasterWorld thread has discussion on a closed beta launch of a new Japanese search engine by the very popular South Korean portal, Naver. The search portal can be found at http://www.naver.jp/ and it is currently a closed beta.
The early feedback on the new search engine seems positive from what I can tell in the thread. In fact, one member said, "quite positive, and the patented combo SERPS, clean design and cool integrated flash elements seem quite nice." Another said, "Some of beta testers report Naver Japan. It seems to have its original features extisting search engines such as Google and Yahoo! don't have."
I cannot read the language so, hard for me to translate this review properly. But maybe someone will and post the details in the forum.
Forum discussion at WebmasterWorld.