Norwegians look to new King Haakon VIII with optimism after King Harald V's death

A day after the passing of Norway's "grandfather," King Harald V, at the age of 89, many Norwegians are facing the future with a sense of optimism under his successor, King Haakon VIII. The transition marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new one, with Haakon having already assumed royal duties upon his father's death.

“

It will go well with Haakon as king.

Erik Schjerven, who visited the palace with his family to lay flowers, noted that "an era has ended." However, he expressed confidence in the new king, stating, "It will go well with Haakon as king." This sentiment is shared by others, like Rolf Christian Holth Olsen, who believes "it will go very well when Haakon takes over" and is "not worried about the royal family going forward." Inger Johanne added, "It is a difficult time for him now. But I think it will be very good."

“

An era is over.

The new king inherits the throne during a period marked by recent controversies. Schjerven alluded to "scandals" involving Queen Mette-Marit's past connections to Jeffrey Epstein and the legal troubles of her son, Marius Borg Høiby. Despite these challenges, Schjerven believes "time heals all wounds," suggesting that these issues may not overshadow Haakon's reign.

“

Time heals all wounds. It will go well with Haakon.

King Haakon VIII, born July 20, 1973, brings a distinguished background to the throne. He holds degrees from the University of California, Berkeley, and the London School of Economics, with a focus on international trade and Africa. He also has a military career, serving as a general in the army, admiral in the navy, and general in the air force. He married Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby in 2001, and they have two children, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus. Haakon is also stepfather to Marius Borg Høiby.

“

I think it will go very well when Haakon takes over. I am not worried for the royal family going forward.