Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Gunpo, South Korea, where the climate can lead to elevated sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels is essential not just for preventing sunburn, but also for protecting your long-term skin health. With typical UV levels peaking at 10 in mid-afternoon, it’s especially important to take precautionary measures during these hours, as they pose a significant risk for skin damage. Gunpo's Dwa climate features hot summers, making UV awareness even more vital for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday citizens alike. Stay informed to enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index peaks during the midday sun, reaching a maximum of 10 at noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the index rises steadily from a mild 1 at 07:00 to an intensity of 9 by 11:00, prompting outdoor enthusiasts to stay protected. From 12:00 to 13:00, the UV Index remains at its highest, encouraging the use of sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. Following this peak, it begins to dip gradually, falling to 4 by 16:00 and continuing to decrease to 1 by 19:00, when the day winds down and the sun begins to set. It's crucial to be mindful of these fluctuations and take necessary precautions during the peak hours!
| 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 | 7 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with the most intense exposure occurring during the summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure are from April to August, particularly peaking in July and August with an extreme UV Index of 11, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. As we transition from spring into summer, residents and visitors should be particularly vigilant, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. In contrast, the winter months (January, February, November, and December) feature a moderate UV exposure, allowing for safer sun enjoyment, but caution is still advised, especially during midday hours. Remember, even on cloudy or cooler days, UV rays can cause harm, so take the necessary precautions year-round.
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 |
| Gunpo | 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 UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |