Norwegians mourn King Harald as son succeeds to throne

Thousands of Norwegians gathered in Oslo to mourn King Harald V, who died on August 28, 2026, at the age of 89. The king, who reigned for 35 years, was remembered as a unifying figure who provided stability through decades of change and a string of family scandals.

“

An era has ended. A new one begins. The king is dead. Long live the king.

Harald's 53-year-old son immediately ascended to the throne, announcing he would reign as King Haakon VIII. The new monarch, accompanied by his 22-year-old daughter and new Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, formally informed the government of his father's death. He thanked the government and the Norwegian people for their support during this time.

“

We will remember King Harald for his love for his people, for his humour and warmth, and for his unwavering faith in us.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store declared, "An era has ended. A new one begins. The king is dead. Long live the king." He added that King Harald would be remembered for his "love for his people, for his humour and warmth, and for his unwavering faith in us." The government announced a period of national mourning until the funeral, the date of which is yet to be set.

“

He was the king of the people.

King Harald, Europe's oldest reigning monarch, had been hospitalized since August 17 with hemolytic anemia. He ascended the throne in 1991 and guided Norway through significant transformations, including periods of economic growth and increasing diversity. Mourners braved rainy weather to lay flowers, cards, and flags outside the Royal Palace, with many embracing in shared grief.

“

Thank you for your support and sympathy for the Royal Family at this time.