Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Busan, South Korea, where the sun can be both a source of warmth and potential harm. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 12 during midday hours, awareness of these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Busan's Cfa climate means long, sunny days, which increase the risk of overexposure to UV radiation. Being mindful of the UV Index can help you protect your skin while enjoying all that this vibrant coastal city has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off mild at 1 at 07:00, making it safe to enjoy the morning outdoors. By 08:00, it increases to 3, signaling the need for light protection. However, the real intensity kicks in as the clock strikes 10:00, with the index peaking at a robust 12 by 12:00 and 13:00. During these hours, the sun’s rays are at their strongest, reaching a maximum of 11 at 11:00. As afternoon transitions into evening, the index begins to decline, dropping to 10 at 14:00 and gradually falling to 1 by 19:00. To make the most of your day, plan your outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon for a safer experience under the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months primarily occurring from March to September. During these months, UV levels climb sharply, peaking at an extreme 12 in July and August, where the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, UV exposure slightly declines but remains notable, hitting 10 in April, May, and September, with burn times of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, particularly during midday when the sun's rays are most intense. From late fall through winter, while the UV Index drops to moderate levels (3-5), it's still important to remain cautious, especially if spending extended time outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incheon UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Seoul UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Daejeon UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Daegu UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Busan | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |