As South Korea grapples with prolonged heatwaves, sun umbrella usage has soared among the public. Supermarket data shows that sales of sun umbrellas and regular umbrellas rose by approximately 25% between July 19 and 21 compared to the previous week. A major South Korean online shopping platform also reported a 42% spike in sun umbrella sales during the same period.
Against this backdrop, a video circulating on overseas social media has sparked discussion. In the clip, a Black female influencer questioned the widespread use of sun umbrellas by Asians to avoid sunlight, saying, “Can someone tell me why Asians are so afraid of the sun? It’s no big deal if your skin gets a little darker.”
In reality, most people who use sun umbrellas or sunscreen are primarily aiming to prevent skin cancer, not just avoid tanning. Medical experts note that ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun damage DNA in skin cells, a primary cause of skin cancer.
Dr. Cho Sung-jin, a dermatologist at Seoul National University Hospital, explained, “While there are other risk factors like radiation exposure, immunosuppression, chronic ulcers, and arsenic poisoning, UV rays are the most representative carcinogens. If you’re concerned about skin cancer, daily sun protection is essential. You should reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors and use a sun umbrella.” South Korean law mandates that sun umbrellas sold locally block at least 85% of UV rays.
This sun protection trend is not limited to Asia. As extreme heat grips many parts of the United States, sun umbrellas have become a new summer staple for American households. Though popular in the U.S. until the late 1990s, sun umbrellas were later overshadowed by hats and functional clothing. However, with temperatures repeatedly hitting record highs, they are experiencing a revival.
The New York Post recently noted that more Americans are realizing that hats and hand fans are far from sufficient in extreme heat, and sun umbrellas offer a more effective solution.
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