In brief
Norway entered a formal period of mourning following the death of King Harald V at age 89, a national shock reflected in crowds outside the Oslo palace and a 21‑shot salute from the fortress. The 53‑year‑old King Haakon VIII took the throne, declaring the royal family’s motto “All for Norway” and will soon swear before Parliament, although his reign comes amid recent scandals in the royal household. The loss of a beloved monarch following a recent medical battle prompted an outpouring of tributes from politicians, foreign dignitaries and ordinary citizens, who highlighted his inclusive reign. The country has seen a decline in monarch support in recent polls, but experts note that Haakon is respected for his integrity and could restore confidence. International observers and Norwegian officials alike are awaiting the formal coronation, a ceremony no longer common in new Scandinavian monarchies.
Norwegian citizens stood in quiet silence outside the royal palace on Friday, watching flowers pile to the flag‑lined ground while the news of King Harald V’s passing spread across the country. The 89‑year‑old monarch, who had served since 1991, died after a brief hospital stay for a rare blood condition, with the funeral routine beginning with an armed salute of 21 shots from Akershus Fortress.
In an extraordinary cabinet meeting the same day, the 53‑year‑old Haakon VIII, who is Harald’s youngest son, met with prime minister Jonas Gahr Støre and other ministers, pledging to carry forward a legacy of unity and service. He echoed the family’s long‑held motto, hearing it echo through the halls that now house his new responsibilities.
The transition coincides with a reputation crisis within the royal household. Earlier in the year, Queen Mette‑Marit revealed a long‑time friendship with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, requiring public apologies, and she required a lung transplant after years of pulmonary fibrosis. Her son from a previous marriage, who was raised alongside the family, was recently convicted of serious crimes, adding to public scrutiny.
Despite this, the public’s view of the monarchy remains supportive, with a 2025 survey showing 54 percent approval – a notable drop from earlier year numbers. Leading royal experts emphasize that Haakon’s devotion and hard‑working approach could help regain trust during the challenging period of early reign.
National mourning has been declared until the official funeral, and flags will fly at half‑mast across all public sites. Major civic events, meetings, and even personal milestones have been postponed, exemplifying the country’s collective respect for its late king.
