Haakon VIII Takes Norway's Throne at 53 as 10,000 Mourn King Harald V
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Aug 28
Haakon VIII Takes Norway's Throne at 53 as 10,000 Mourn King Harald V
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Aug 28
Summary
King Harald V died at 89 at 06:35 local time after treatment for a rare blood condition, triggering national mourning as his son Haakon VIII formally assumed the throne.
10,000 people lined Oslo's streets as Harald's coffin was taken from hospital to the royal palace, while the armed forces fired a 21-gun salute and crowds left flowers and flags outside.
Haakon, 53, held an extraordinary council of state with ministers and adopted the royal motto "All for Norway"; he is due to swear an oath before parliament on Tuesday.
Harald, who reigned for 35 years, drew tributes from European royals, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and citizens who praised his inclusive style and the stability he brought Norway.
The succession comes as the monarchy faces strain: support fell to 54% this year from 72% in 2024, and Haakon must navigate family health issues and recent scandals.