Last updated: July 2, 2025
Staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for residents of Hongseong, South Korea, where the Cfa climate brings both warmth and the potential for high UV exposure. Understanding UV levels is key to preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index soars to a staggering 11 around noon. With daily variations that reveal risks from early morning to late afternoon, being aware of UV intensity can help you take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely and maintain your well-being year-round.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it jumps to 3, signaling an increase in sun intensity. The real peak arrives as the clock strikes 11:00 with a robust 10, continuing to soar to a maximum of 11 at 12:00, where caution is advised—especially for those spending extended time outdoors. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the index lowering to 8 at 15:00, before dropping to 3 by 17:00. As the day winds down, the UV levels retreat to 1 from 18:00 onward, concluding a day of fluctuating sun exposure. To enjoy the outdoors safely, be mindful of those midday hours when sun protection is paramount!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays notable seasonal variations, indicating changing risks of sun exposure for both visitors and residents. High-risk months typically occur from April to August, with the UV Index peaking at 11 during June, July, and August, deemed as extreme exposure, with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. April and May also present very high UV levels at 9, where even minimal sun exposure can lead to burns in just 15 minutes. As the seasons transition, UV levels decrease in the fall and winter, with January, February, November, and December maintaining a moderate risk category. To safeguard your skin during high UV periods, it is advisable to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen liberally, especially during the summer months when sun safety is paramount.
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 |
| Hongseong | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 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 UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |