World's Oldest King Hospitalized, Condition Worsens; Royal Court Issues Official Statement

King Harald V, Norway's 89-year-old monarch, remains hospitalized at Rikshospitalet due to serious complications arising from treatment for hemolytic anemia. The king, who has been receiving antibiotics and has responded to treatment, will stay at the hospital indefinitely. His sick leave, initially planned for two weeks, has been extended without a set end date.

Crown Prince Haakon, 53, has stepped in to serve as regent, carrying out the king's duties during his absence. The king's health issues have led to the postponement of his planned visits to Rindal, Hoeylandet, Siljan, and Nissedal in September. These visits were significant as they would have completed his official tours of all Norwegian municipalities, a tradition upheld by the royal family since 1969.

Queen Sonja will now undertake the September visits alone. The royal family's "fylkesturer," or county tours, are a long-standing tradition, described by King Harald in 2024 as among his most important duties. He emphasized meeting residents and local activists who build strong communities. The king has faced numerous health challenges in recent years, including bladder cancer in 2003, heart valve surgery in 2005, a pacemaker implantation in 2024, and a hospital stay in February for infection and dehydration.

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We meet the residents and local activists who build safe and good communities, inhabited by people who love their home regions.