Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Changyon, North Korea, as it plays a significant role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With a Dwa climate characterized by hot summers, locals face heightened risks of UV exposure, especially during peak hours between 10 AM and 2 PM when UV levels soar to 9—indicating a very high risk. By being aware of these UV levels, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and enjoy the sun safely, ensuring your outdoor activities don't come at the cost of skin damage. Stay informed, stay protected!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing through the morning. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, before peaking at a significant 9 during the midday hours of 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—a clear indication that sun protection is crucial. The intensity begins to taper off in the afternoon, dropping to 6 by 10:00 AM, and then gradually descending to 4 at 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels decrease further, returning to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM and remaining at that low level until sunset. Whether you're heading out for a morning jog or a lunchtime break, be mindful of those peak hours, and don't forget your sunscreen!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. January and February see a moderate UV Index of 3 and 4, allowing for 30 minutes of safe exposure. As spring approaches, March escalates to a high category with a UV Index of 6 and a 25-minute burn time. The sun's intensity climbs sharply from April through August, reaching an extreme UV Index of 11 in August, where burn time decreases to just 10 minutes—making this the highest-risk month for sun exposure. September also remains concerning with a UV Index of 9, while October sees a drop to a high level and a burn time of 25 minutes. As winter approaches, November and December return to moderate and low levels respectively, with burn times extending to 30 and 45 minutes. Visitors and residents during the high-risk months of April through August should take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hungnam UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Sunch'on UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Hamhung UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Pyongyang UVI | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Namp'o UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Changyon | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 |