A backlight unit that converts ultraviolet light emitted from
light-emitting lamps into visible light is disclosed. The backlight unit
also reflects the visible light, thus achieving improved luminance. The
backlight unit includes a plurality of light-emitting lamps arranged
substantially in parallel, an outer case that fixes and supports the
light-emitting lamps, and a reflection sheet disposed within the outer
case and containing a fluorescent material that converts ultraviolet
light into visible light and reflects the visible light.