Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Chongju, North Korea is essential for safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With a climate classified as Dwa, residents and visitors are exposed to varying UV levels throughout the day, ranging from a low of 1 in the early morning to a peak of 9 around noon. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a crucial role in protecting long-term skin health. As the sun's intensity increases, particularly from late morning to early afternoon, being informed about these changes can be the key to enjoying the beautiful outdoors safely.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and steadily rising as the sun reaches its peak. By 10:00, it escalates to a moderate 6, reaching 8 at 11:00 and peaking at an intense 9 from 12:00 to 13:00. This period signifies the greatest caution for sun exposure, making it essential to seek shade and wear protective clothing. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to dip, dropping to 8 at 14:00, then declining further to 7 by 15:00, and tapering down to 1 by 19:00. Overall, it’s a day that encourages sun safety awareness, particularly during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the year progresses, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with peaks in summer months and a decline as fall and winter approach. High-risk months for UV exposure are April through August, where the index reaches very high to extreme levels, particularly in July and August, with a peak index of 11 and a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of skin damage. In contrast, the winter months of December and January present lower UV levels, with indices dropping to 2 and 3, making them less of a concern for sun exposure. Staying informed and cautious during high-risk months is essential for safe outdoor activities year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chongju | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| 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 |