Norway's new king: Haakon VIII, a royal balancing duty and passion

Norway welcomes Haakon VIII as its new monarch, stepping into the role after the passing of his father, King Harald. At 53, the new king is characterized as a sporty and respected figure, bringing a wealth of experience from his time as regent. His background includes multiple academic degrees and a family life with three children, painting a picture of a modern royal.

Born in 1973 as the second child of King Harald and Queen Sonja, Haakon's path to the throne was shaped by Norway's male-preference primogeniture at the time. His older sister, Märtha Louise, was initially in line but declined the role, a decision she has since stood by, stating her younger brother was a better fit. Despite a protected upbringing on the Skaugum estate, his parents prioritized a normal education, sending him to a local primary school rather than an elite institution.

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I didn't want to talk about my background. It made me anxious at school.

Haakon has spoken of his struggles with his royal title, feeling constantly observed. His early aspirations of running a toy store were overshadowed by the preordained path of kingship. He pursued military training with the Norwegian Navy, preparing for his role as commander-in-chief, before studying political science at Berkeley in the U.S. and international trade in London, seeking a degree of anonymity abroad.

His public life has involved extensive representation of Norway on numerous international trips and state visits. Known for his love of the outdoors, Haakon is an avid skier, surfer, paraglider, cyclist, and cross-country skier, embodying the image of a typical Norwegian. His passion for music and festivals led him to meet Mette-Marit Tjessem in 1999. Their relationship faced public scrutiny due to Mette-Marit's past as a single mother with a history of drug use and reality TV appearances. Despite the sensationalist press, the couple persevered, announcing their engagement after a year, with Haakon acknowledging the public's right to comment but ultimately standing by their union.

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People felt they had every right to say something loudly about the two of us.