Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors to Kosan, North Korea, where the climate can significantly elevate your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. With UV levels peaking at 9 between noon and 1 PM, it’s vital to stay informed about daily UV exposure to protect your skin and overall health. Kosan’s Dwb climate brings warm summers and notable UV radiation, making awareness of UV levels not just a good idea, but an essential part of enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely.
The UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, perfect for early risers looking to enjoy the morning sun without worries. As the day progresses, the intensity increases, peaking at 9 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, a clear signal to seek shade and protect your skin during the intense midday hours. From 2:00 PM onward, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM, and tapering off further to 2 by 5:00 PM. As daylight fades, UV levels return to low with 1 by 6:00 PM, making the evening hours more comfortable for outdoor activities. Be mindful of the sun's strength and plan your day accordingly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | 6 | 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 exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months identified from April to August when the UV Index peaks at 11 and falls into the extreme category, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes. In contrast, the UV Index is at its lowest in January and December at 3, categorized as moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety during the high-risk months, particularly by limiting sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM, wearing protective clothing, and using high-SPF sunscreen to mitigate the effects of intense UV radiation. As the seasons transition, it's essential to remain vigilant about UV protection, especially as spring approaches and levels rise.
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 |
| Kosan | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |