29/08/2026
NORWAY MOURNS KING HARALD V AS HAAKON VIII TAKES THE THRONE
Norway has entered a new royal era following the death of King Harald V, who passed away peacefully on Friday at Oslo University Hospital aged 89.
Thousands of mourners have gathered outside the Royal Palace in Oslo, laying flowers and paying tribute to the monarch who served Norway for more than 35 years. A national period of mourning has been declared.
His 53-year-old son has automatically succeeded him as King Haakon VIII, adopting the traditional royal motto, “All for Norway.” He is expected to take the Oath of Allegiance before Parliament on Tuesday, September 1.
King Harald is being remembered as a warm, unifying and modernising monarch who championed tolerance and inclusivity throughout his reign.
An era ends, another begins. Rest in peace, King Harald V. 🇳🇴🕊️