Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Gangneung, South Korea, where the surrounding beauty and vibrant outdoor culture can expose you to significant solar radiation. Knowing UV levels can help prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, especially during peak hours when the index reaches as high as 11. Gangneung's Dfb climate typically brings about varying UV exposure risks, particularly during the summer months when the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely by checking the UV Index regularly!
Throughout the day, the UV Index experiences a dramatic peak, beginning at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM and swiftly rising to a moderate 5 by 9:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index surges to its maximum of 11 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this peak, it begins to decline, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then steadily decreasing to 2 by 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index falls to a soft 1 by 6:00 PM, offering a reprieve for evening activities. It's a clear reminder to protect your skin, especially during those high noon hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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 levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risks occurring during the summer months. January and February see moderate UV indices (3-4), allowing for up to 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. As spring approaches, March escalates to a high level (6) with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The UV index peaks in the summer, reaching extreme levels (11-12) from June to August, where safe exposure drops to just 10 minutes. In September, the index remains high (10), demanding caution with a short burn time of 15 minutes, while October returns to a high index (7) with 25 minutes of exposure. November and December revert back to moderate levels (4-3), allowing for 30 minutes of sun without risk. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection, especially between April and September, when the risk for UV-related skin damage is at its highest. Regularly use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to ensure safety.
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 |
| Gangneung | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 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 UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |