Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Pyongyang, North Korea, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburns. High UV levels—especially during midday hours—can significantly increase the risk of skin damage, making awareness key for residents and visitors alike. With a Dwa climate, characterized by distinct seasons, the city experiences varying UV exposure risks throughout the year. On sunny days, UV Index readings can reach a maximum of 10, highlighting the importance of protective measures. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Pyongyang!
The UV Index data reveals a compelling daily pattern in sunlight’s intensity. Starting the day at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily to reach a peak of 10 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By 11:00, it hits 9, a clear signal to seek shade and wear protective gear. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 4 by 16:00, and further down to 1 by evening. This trend underscores the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 to 14:00, when UV radiation can be most intense.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do UV levels, significantly impacting safe sun exposure. From January to March, the UV Index remains moderate, peaking at 4 in February with a burn time of 30 minutes. However, the risk escalates dramatically from April, when the UV Index reaches 8, marking the start of the very high exposure category, which continues through July, where it peaks at 10. August faces the highest risk with an extreme index of 11, allowing only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. As summer wanes into September, the index reduces slightly to 9, but remains in the very high category. October sees a drop to 6 (high), followed by moderate levels in November and low levels in December. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures, especially during the high-risk months of April to August; wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sunlight 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 | 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 |