The invasive practice of suturing for wound closure has persisted for millennia; with the rate of medical development, it is staggering that there are few viable alternatives to invasive mechanical fasteners. Biocompatible and biodegradable polymers are attractive candidates for versatile bioadhesives and could revolutionize surgical procedures. Bioadhesives can be broadly placed into two groups: activated and instant. Almost all commercially available bioadhesives are instant, which cross-link by mixing two components or on contact with moisture. Activated bioadhesives, on the other hand, allow control of when and where a bioadhesive cross-links and, in some cases, the extent of cross-linking. Despite significant progress, there has been little translation of activated bioadhesives to clinical use. This review discusses recent developments in UV-activated bioadhesives toward addressing unmet clinical needs.