Norwegians mourn King Harald as son succeeds to throne

Norwegians gathered outside the royal palace to mourn the death of King Harald on 28 August 2026. The 89-year-old monarch had reigned for three and a half decades. Harald's 53-year-old son, Haakon VIII, immediately ascended to the throne and will be known by that name.

The new king was greeted by his 22-year-old daughter, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, who is the new crown princess. Haakon arrived at the palace to formally inform the government of his father's passing. In a statement, he expressed gratitude to the government and the Norwegian people for their support and sympathy during this difficult time.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store addressed the nation, saying, "An era has ended. A new one begins. The king is dead. Long live the king." He praised Harald for his love for his people, humor, warmth, and unwavering faith in the nation.

King Harald had been hospitalized since August 17 due to haemolytic anaemia, a condition caused by the rapid destruction of red blood cells. He experienced fatigue and shortness of breath as a result of the illness. A man was seen reacting outside the royal palace as people laid down flowers, cards, cuddly toys, and Norwegian flags in tribute.

The government announced a period of national mourning until the king's funeral, which has yet to be scheduled. The royal palace lowered its flag to half-mast after Harald's death was announced but raised it again after Haakon arrived for the meeting with the government.