The present invention relates to a novel imidazole derivative having a C-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitory activity and a use thereof. A novel imidazole derivative or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof according to the present invention exhibits an excellent inhibitory activity against C-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and thus it is anticipated that a more fundamental approach and target treatment will be possible in the prevention or treatment of degenerative brain nervous system diseases.